Nollywood filmmaker Ugezu J. Ugezu has said the real concern for many Nigerians is not the payment of taxes but the fear that public funds may be mismanaged or diverted.
The actor shared his views in a video posted on his Facebook page while commenting on ongoing discussions surrounding tax reforms in the country.
According to Ugezu, many citizens would have no objection to paying taxes if they could clearly see that the revenue was being used to improve infrastructure, public services and other areas that directly benefit the people.
He argued that public confidence in the tax system depends largely on accountability and transparency in the management of government funds.
“The president is talking about introducing tax law. Let me be very sincere with you. Nigerians are not afraid of paying taxes. Nigerians are rather afraid of somebody looting the taxes they have paid, and we have seen it happen,” he said.
The filmmaker added that concerns over corruption have made many citizens sceptical about how tax revenue is managed.
He maintained that stronger action against individuals found guilty of embezzling public funds would encourage greater trust in the country’s tax system.
According to him, visible enforcement of anti-corruption laws and proper accountability would reassure taxpayers that their contributions are being protected.
Ugezu also stressed that Nigerians would be more willing to fulfil their tax obligations if government projects funded by tax revenue were evident across the country.
His comments come amid continued national conversations on tax policy, revenue generation and calls for greater transparency in public finance management.