The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), a civil society organization, has voiced strong opposition to the Akwa Ibom Taxes Bill, also known as the Property Bill, characterizing it as draconian and anti-people. During a public hearing at Luton Park Hotel on February 4, 2026, CHRAN urged lawmakers in Akwa Ibom State to reconsider the bill, which aims to unify and update the legal tax frameworks in the state. The group's Executive Director, Mr. Franklyn Isong, articulated grave concerns that this legislation could entrench poverty among the state's citizens, who are already facing significant economic challenges.

Moreover, the group pointed out a historical precedent for their concerns by recalling a similar taxation bill that was previously rejected in 2016 under the administration of Udom Emmanuel. The pushback from CHRAN highlights the pressing issue of governance and accountability in Akwa Ibom State, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to thoroughly evaluate the socioeconomic implications of the proposed tax law. Isong's call to action reflects deeper civil society engagement in policy discourse, aiming to protect the rights and livelihoods of residents.

As local citizens and civil society groups rally against the bill, the implications of passing such legislation could trigger broader reactions in the political landscape of Akwa Ibom, and set a precedent for governance practices in Nigeria. The outcome of this ongoing debate may ultimately determine how the state government balances revenue generation with the welfare of its residents, a situation that is pivotal in the context of increasing economic hardship throughout the region.