Former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Samson Ayokunle, says many Nigerians are becoming poorer as a result of mounting taxes and the economic hardship triggered by recent government policies.

Speaking during an appearance on Inside Sources on Channels Television, Ayokunle said the combined effects of multiple taxation and the removal of fuel subsidy have significantly worsened the financial situation of many citizens.

According to the cleric, the pressure from rising costs and government-imposed levies is leaving many Nigerians struggling to cope with daily living expenses.

“The people appear to be poorer because of what I see as unending taxes. Whereas, the government doesn’t bother where the money is coming from,” Ayokunle said.

He noted that even retired citizens who have served the country faithfully are not spared from the burden, describing the situation as troubling for a nation grappling with economic challenges.

“Even people that are not actively working any longer, people that have served the nation and on pension, they are being taxed, they are been forced to go and buy petrol to move out at exorbitant prices,” he said.

Nigeria’s economic reforms in recent years have included the removal of petrol subsidy and efforts to increase government revenue through expanded tax collection.

While authorities say the measures are necessary to stabilise the economy and fund development, Ayokunle argued that the policies have come with severe consequences for ordinary citizens.

He acknowledged that the government introduced the reforms with the intention of improving the country’s economic outlook but insisted that adequate measures to ease the burden on citizens have not been clearly articulated.

“The subsidy has been removed, all in an effort to improve the economy. But the cushioning of the effect of what I will call these draconian economic policies is not very much well spelt out. People are left on their own,” he stated.

The former CAN president stressed the need for government authorities to introduce stronger social protection mechanisms to shield vulnerable Nigerians from the harsh economic environment.

He also called for clearer communication on how the benefits of ongoing economic reforms would reach ordinary citizens, warning that failure to address widespread hardship could deepen public frustration.

Ayokunle’s remarks come amid growing public debate over Nigeria’s economic direction, as rising fuel prices, inflation and increased cost of living continue to place pressure on households across the country. (Daily Trust)

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