Senator Ali Ndume has criticized the proposed cybersecurity levy, stating that it is unjust for the government to impose additional taxes on citizens without first increasing their income opportunities.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Senator Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, expressed concern over the potential burden the cybersecurity levy would place on Nigerians.
“You cannot be loading taxes on people when you are not increasing their income. Their source of income, you are not widening it, you are not increasing it. I am not part of those that support levying people anyhow,” Ndume emphasized.
While acknowledging his support for the amendment to the Cybersecurity Act, Ndume regretted overlooking the provision that imposes a financial burden on Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of improving the Cybercrime Act to combat cybercrime effectively.
Ndume emphasized that the responsibility to scrutinize legislation lies not solely with lawmakers but also with civil society organizations and labor unions, who should identify potential shortcomings during public hearings.
The directive from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to deduct the levy and remit it to the National Cybersecurity Fund (NCF), administered by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has sparked widespread criticism. Labor unions have threatened nationwide action if the government fails to withdraw the directive.
Responding to the outcry, the House of Representatives has called on the CBN to retract the circular, labeling it “ambiguous.”
Senator Ndume’s stance reflects growing concerns over the implications of the cybersecurity levy on Nigerians’ financial well-being, highlighting the need for comprehensive scrutiny and public consultation before imposing new taxes.