Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has accused former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi of spreading what he described as “egregious lies” about an alleged tax policy.
Onanuga made the remark in a post on X while reacting to a viral video in which Amaechi warned Nigerians about the possible effects of a tax law he claimed could be implemented after the next general election.
In the video, Amaechi alleged that the policy would significantly affect businesses and everyday transactions, claiming that a 25 per cent deduction could be applied to certain payments and costs, with the burden eventually passed on to consumers through higher rents, service charges and prices.
He questioned why the government had not introduced the measure earlier, suggesting it was being delayed until after elections to avoid public backlash. He also urged citizens to take the issue seriously and participate actively in the electoral process, saying the policy could have far-reaching consequences for households and livelihoods.
Responding, Onanuga dismissed the claims as false and accused the former Rivers State governor of misleading the public about the contents of the tax legislation.
He wrote that Amaechi had “really slipped so low” by allegedly spreading misinformation, and questioned whether the claims signalled the tone of opposition campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections involving All Progressives Congressand other political actors.
The exchange highlights growing political tensions around fiscal reforms and campaign narratives as discussions on taxation and economic policy continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.