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Peter Obi: The Man Who Taxed Poor People in Anambra — Reno Omokri

Published by admin on January 3rd, 2026.

Peter Obi: The Man Who Taxed Poor People in Anambra — Reno Omokri

Dear Peter Obi,

Thank you for sharing your views on the Tax Reform Act, which officially took effect on New Year’s Day. However, it seems you may have overlooked some important historical context.

During your tenure as Governor of Anambra State, poverty in the state increased, yet new and heavy taxes were imposed on ordinary citizens. To be precise, the poverty rate in Anambra rose from 41.4% in 2003, before you took office, to 53.7% in 2009, while you were governor—a nearly 30% increase.

Despite this rise in poverty, on June 11, 2013, you introduced additional taxes on Anambra markets. Traders in the state protested these measures, including 600 vendors from Eke Awka Market, who filed an appeal against the policy. When you insisted that they comply with the new taxes, the traders staged another protest, barricading the State House of Assembly and halting legislative proceedings.

Meanwhile, revelations from the Pandora Papers indicate that you had hidden personal wealth in offshore tax havens during this period.

Given this history, it is surprising that you are now criticizing the Tinubu administration for “taxing the poor,” despite the fact that the government has added $57 billion to Nigeria’s economy. Moreover, the new Tax Reform Act exempts Nigerians earning less than ₦800,000, which would provide relief to the petty traders in Anambra who faced heavy taxation under your watch.

Peter, it might be worth revisiting your own record. You taxed a population already struggling with poverty, whereas President Tinubu’s policies are aimed at reducing poverty and supporting citizens. The contrast between your approach as governor and the current administration’s policies is stark.

—Reno Omokri