Agbese Challenges Kingibe's Fuel Tax Claims Ahead of 2027

Hon. Philip Agbese, the federal lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency and leader in Benue State, publicly condemned Senator Ireti Kingibe of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for her allegations regarding a fuel tax and a 25% levy. Agbese addressed journalists on October 22, asserting that Kingibe's claims were factually incorrect and aimed at exploiting public anxiety ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He explained that the law, which took effect on January 1, 2026, does not include any fuel tax and that the cited 25% income tax rate applies only to annual income exceeding ₦50 million, with the first ₦800,000 attracting a zero percent rate. Agbese criticized Kingibe for suggesting that the implementation of the tax laws was delayed until after the elections, arguing that this contradicted the law's effective date.

He challenged Kingibe to reference the specific section of the Tax Act 2025 that supports her claims, emphasizing the importance of accurate information from a sitting senator.