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.

A civil society organisation, Volunteer Media Advocacy for Accountable Leadership, has lauded the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwaseun Falaye, for prioritising staff welfare and driving key reforms aimed at repositioning the agency.

In a press statement signed by its Country Director of Mobilization, Joseph Ezejiegu, the group described Falaye’s leadership as “visionary and impactful,” noting that his commitment to workers’ well-being and institutional efficiency has set a new standard within the organisation.

The statement particularly highlighted the recent commissioning of an Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) Help Desk at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, describing it as a significant milestone in expanding access to compensation services for federal civil servants.

According to Ezejiegu, the initiative demonstrates the NSITF management’s resolve to bring its services closer to workers, ensuring timely response to workplace injury claims and enhancing awareness of employees’ rights under the ECS framework.

“Barrister Falaye has shown uncommon dedication to improving the welfare of NSITF staff and strengthening the institution’s capacity to deliver on its mandate. The establishment of the ECS Help Desk is a clear indication of a people-centred approach to governance,” the statement read.

The group further noted that under Falaye’s leadership, the NSITF has witnessed renewed focus on transparency, service delivery, and stakeholder engagement, all of which are critical to restoring public confidence in the agency.

It added that prioritising staff welfare has not only boosted morale within the organisation but has also translated into improved productivity and efficiency in service delivery.

Volunteer Media Advocacy for Accountable Leadership urged other public sector leaders to emulate Falaye’s example by placing workers’ welfare and institutional reforms at the forefront of their administrative agenda.

The group reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote accountability, efficiency, and the protection of workers’ rights, expressing optimism that the NSITF would continue on its path of sustainable transformation under the current leadership.

By Aaron Mike Odeh

Recent developments in Edo State, where a group of youths disrupted a political engagement with chants of “no more promises,” have sparked intense reactions across the state. While such incidents may initially appear as expressions of civic frustration, a closer and more objective analysis suggests a more calculated undertone—one that reflects the handiwork of political adversaries determined to undermine credible leadership and obstruct continuity.

At the center of this unfolding discourse is the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Dr. Osamwonyi Atu, a leader whose track record in human capacity building and community development continues to resonate strongly with his constituents. His growing influence, rooted in tangible achievements, has understandably unsettled those who struggle to match his performance and grassroots connection.

It is important to acknowledge that Nigerian youths are not without legitimate concerns. Across the country, economic hardship, unemployment, and limited opportunities have fueled a sense of impatience and disillusionment. However, the recent disruption in Edo State does not convincingly reflect a spontaneous or organic protest. Rather, it bears the imprint of a sponsored jamboree—an orchestrated display designed to create a false narrative of widespread dissatisfaction.

Dr. Atu’s leadership has been defined by action rather than rhetoric. Over the years, he has championed initiatives aimed at empowering young people through skills acquisition programs, vocational training, and community-based development projects. These interventions have provided many with the tools to become self-reliant, thereby reducing dependence and fostering economic resilience at the grassroots level.

Beyond human capacity development, his contributions to community growth are both visible and impactful. From facilitating infrastructural improvements to supporting educational initiatives and social welfare programs, Dr. Atu has demonstrated a consistent commitment to improving the quality of life for his constituents. His approach to governance reflects a deep understanding of the needs of the people and a willingness to address them in practical and sustainable ways.

It is precisely these achievements that have made him a target of political opposition. Unable to counter his record with superior performance, his detractors have resorted to tactics aimed at discrediting his leadership. The so-called protest, therefore, should not be mistaken for genuine civic resistance; it is, in essence, an infatuation driven by envy and sustained by misinformation.

History offers clear lessons on the consequences of such theatrics. When politics is reduced to disruption and propaganda, governance suffers, and development is slowed. Edo State cannot afford to be distracted by such regressive tendencies at a time when continuity and stability are crucial for sustained progress.

Equally important is the need to emphasize the value of peaceful and constructive civic engagement. True democracy thrives on dialogue, accountability, and collaboration—not on orchestrated chaos. Citizens have the right to demand better governance, but that demand must be expressed in ways that strengthen, rather than weaken, democratic institutions.

Dr. Atu has consistently shown openness to engagement, maintaining accessibility to his constituents and demonstrating a willingness to listen and respond. This level of responsiveness is a hallmark of effective leadership and should be encouraged. It creates a foundation for trust and fosters a sense of shared responsibility between leaders and the people.

For the youth of Edo State, the path forward must be guided by discernment. Their voices are powerful, but their impact depends on how they are deployed. Allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political manipulation ultimately undermines their credibility and dilutes the legitimacy of their concerns. Instead, they must channel their energy into constructive participation—engaging in policy discussions, community development efforts, and the democratic process.

Political actors, on their part, must also rise above the temptation of short-term gains achieved through destabilizing tactics. The future of Edo State depends on issue-based politics that prioritizes development, unity, and the collective good over personal ambition and rivalry.

The recent incident should therefore be viewed not as a reflection of failure, but as a reminder of the challenges that accompany impactful leadership. It underscores the need for vigilance against attempts to distort reality and mislead the public.

In truth, the disruption represents little more than a fleeting spectacle—a jamboree lacking substance and authenticity. It cannot overshadow the concrete achievements and positive impact that Dr. Osamwonyi Atu has delivered over time. Edo people are discerning enough to recognize the difference between genuine leadership and politically engineered distractions.

As the state looks to the future, the emphasis must remain on consolidating gains and supporting leaders who have demonstrated capacity, integrity, and commitment. Continuity in leadership, particularly one that has proven effective, is essential for sustaining development and ensuring that progress is not reversed.

In conclusion, peaceful collaboration remains far more powerful than chaos in shaping a just and progressive society. Edo State stands to gain more from unity, dialogue, and strategic engagement than from disruption and division. Dr. Osamwonyi Atu exemplifies the kind of leadership that drives meaningful change—leadership rooted in service, impact, and a genuine commitment to the people.

Aaron Mike Odeh
A Public Affairs Analyst, Media Consultant, and Community Development Advocate wrote from Post Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja