Perception of Inequality in Nigeria – Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo

Nigeria is at a very critical crossroads, and it is becoming increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to survive, let alone live with dignity and peace of mind. Across the country today, there is a deep sense of frustration, exhaustion, and silent anger among the people. From the markets to the streets, from rural communities to urban centres, the same story is being told: life is getting harder every single day, and hope is gradually being squeezed out of the average Nigerian.

The cost of living has risen to an unbearable level. Food prices have skyrocketed beyond the reach of ordinary families. Items that were once considered basic necessities have now become luxuries. Many Nigerians can no longer afford to eat balanced meals; some are struggling to eat even once a day. Parents are forced to make painful choices between feeding their children, paying school fees, or seeking medical care. This is not the Nigeria our people deserve.

Unemployment and underemployment remain major challenges. Millions of young people, despite being educated, skilled, and willing to work, roam the streets without jobs. Those who manage to find work are often underpaid, overworked, and insecure, with salaries that can no longer meet basic needs due to inflation. Small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy, are shutting down daily because of high operating costs, unstable policies, poor infrastructure, and low consumer purchasing power.

The situation is further worsened by insecurity across many parts of the country. Farmers are afraid to go to their farms, traders fear travelling, and communities live in constant anxiety. When people cannot farm or trade freely, food production drops, prices rise, and hunger spreads. Peace is the foundation of development, and without security, economic progress becomes impossible.

In the midst of all these hardships, the introduction and discussion of new tax laws have raised serious concerns among ordinary Nigerians. Taxation in itself is not the problem; taxes are necessary for national development. However, the timing, structure, and implementation of these tax policies are deeply troubling. How can more financial burdens be placed on citizens who are already struggling to survive? How can people who can barely afford food, transportation, rent, and healthcare be expected to shoulder additional taxes?

For many Nigerians, taxation now feels less like a civic responsibility and more like a punishment for being poor. Informal workers, small traders, artisans, and low-income earners are being squeezed from all sides. Instead of creating an environment where people can grow, earn, and prosper before being taxed fairly, the system appears to be taking from emptiness. This only increases poverty, resentment, and distrust in government.

What makes the situation more painful is the perception of inequality and injustice. Ordinary Nigerians are asked to tighten their belts while signs of waste, luxury, and mismanagement in governance continue to surface. When people do not see transparency, accountability, and visible impact of taxes in their daily lives, such as good roads, stable electricity, and quality healthcare which is affordable. NigeriANS deserves better.