Misinformation Spreading Faster Than Facts: APC Chieftain Urges Intensified Sensitisation on New Tax Laws to Curb Confusion

 A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has raised the alarm over widespread misinformation surrounding Nigeria's newly implemented tax reform laws, warning that false narratives are undermining public understanding and casting doubt on the Federal Government's pro-people intentions.

In a statement issued on Sunday, January 18, 2026, the former lawmaker representing Obokun State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly lamented that many Nigerians, including educated individuals, remain confused about the provisions of the tax laws that took effect on January 1, 2026. He attributed the confusion to inadequate public sensitisation, the rapid spread of unverified claims on social media, and alleged discrepancies between the bill passed by the National Assembly and published versions.

“Widespread misinformation about the tax law has left many Nigerians confused about what, when, and how their earnings will be taxed,” Oyintiloye stated. “The misinformation is spreading faster than the true intentions of the law and its benefits. Till this moment, many Nigerians, both literate and illiterate, do not actually know what to believe about the tax law.”

He emphasized that the reforms, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025, are designed to protect low-income earners through exemptions (including complete relief for workers earning up to ₦800,000 annually), simplify the tax system, harmonize multiple overlapping laws, and promote fairness while boosting government revenue for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.

Oyintiloye called on the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Federal Ministry of Information, and other relevant agencies to urgently ramp up public awareness campaigns. “This is important and necessary to enable people to understand the good intentions of the government, especially towards low earners, and to curb the spread of misinformation. Many people still do not know what the law entails or how it will apply to them,” he added.

The APC chieftain also highlighted that the tax reforms are part of broader economic measures under President Tinubu's administration, which he said have begun yielding positive results. He urged authorities to better package and showcase these gains to the public.

The statement comes amid ongoing public debates and criticisms of the tax laws, with opposition figures, labour unions like the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and civil society groups expressing concerns over implementation, potential burdens, and alleged inconsistencies in gazetted versions. Pro-government voices, including the Lagos State APC chapter, have previously dismissed such criticisms as “misinformation, sensationalism, and political mischief,” insisting the reforms exempt or reduce burdens on vulnerable groups.

Oyintiloye's call for intensified enlightenment reflects growing recognition that effective communication is key to voluntary compliance and public buy-in for the fiscal overhaul, described as Nigeria's most comprehensive tax reform since independence.

As the new tax regime continues to roll out, stakeholders anticipate increased efforts from government agencies to address public concerns, clarify provisions, and counter false narratives circulating on social media and other platforms. The APC chieftain reiterated that with proper understanding, the laws will support national development without unduly burdening ordinary citizens.