The Arewa Socio-Economic Forum (ASEF) has dismissed as false claims of a new vehicle tax allegedly introduced by the Federal Government, saying its independent findings show no such policy exists.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National President, Dr Aminu Kuta, the Forum said its investigation into the widely circulated claims has cleared both the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and the Federal Ministry of Finance of any involvement in the purported tax.
The group said the viral message, which urged vehicle owners to pay unspecified levies through unofficial channels, was misleading and designed to create confusion among Nigerians.
“The Arewa Socio-economic Forum wishes to categorically state that there is no new tax on vehicles as being falsely circulated in some quarters. Our findings confirm that neither the Nigeria Revenue Service nor the Ministry of Finance has introduced any such policy,” the statement read.
Dr Kuta said the Forum undertook a careful review of available information and engaged relevant stakeholders before arriving at its conclusion, adding that the clarification was necessary to prevent public panic and misinformation.
He urged Nigerians to rely on verified government channels for policy updates, warning that fabricated messages and fake websites are increasingly being used to exploit citizens.
“We advise the public to disregard such misleading content and to always verify tax-related information through official platforms. Misinformation of this nature not only creates unnecessary anxiety but also undermines public trust in government institutions,” he said.
Beyond the clarification, the Forum called on citizens to remain vigilant and actively monitor the implementation of existing tax policies, particularly as the Federal Government continues to roll out fiscal reforms aimed at improving revenue generation and distribution.
Dr Kuta noted that recent reforms have begun to yield measurable benefits, especially at the subnational level, where increased Value Added Tax (VAT) allocations are providing much-needed financial support to states.
According to him, poorer states are already experiencing improved fiscal capacity as a result of these reforms, enabling them to meet basic obligations and invest in critical sectors.
“The ongoing tax reforms are beginning to show positive outcomes. We are seeing increased VAT inflows to states, and more importantly, a more equitable distribution that supports less economically advantaged states,” he said.
The Forum commended the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, for what it described as a “clear and reform-driven approach” to fiscal policy, particularly in advancing a system that promotes efficiency, transparency, and inclusiveness.
It also praised the Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, for his role in strengthening tax administration and improving public communication on fiscal matters.
“We salute the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, for their commitment to building a tax system that works for the country. Their efforts are helping to restore confidence and improve revenue outcomes,” the statement added.
The Forum stressed that while reforms may take time to fully mature, consistent implementation and public cooperation remain critical to their success.
It reiterated the need for transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in sustaining progress within Nigeria’s fiscal framework.
“As stakeholders in national development, Nigerians must not only support reforms but also hold institutions accountable through informed engagement. This is how we build a system that is both fair and effective,” Dr Kuta said.
The Arewa Socio-economic Forum concluded by urging continued collaboration between government institutions and the public, noting that credible information and responsible civic participation are essential to strengthening trust and advancing economic stability.