Kwale — The Human Rights Pathfinders Association (HURPA) has called on the Federal Government to impose a 50-year jail term on public officials and individuals found guilty of looting public funds generated from taxation, describing the act as a grave betrayal of the Nigerian people.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association said it is grossly unjust for citizens to faithfully pay taxes while government officials entrusted with managing public resources divert such funds for personal gain.

According to HURPA, taxation remains one of the primary means through which government funds essential services such as education, healthcare, road infrastructure, security, and social welfare. The continuous looting of tax revenues, the group warned, has worsened poverty levels and deepened public distrust in government.

“It is unacceptable for hardworking Nigerians to pay taxes only for those in authority to loot the same funds meant for national development,” HURPA stated. “Such actions amount to economic sabotage and should attract severe punishment.”

The human rights group stressed that corruption in tax administration and public finance management has crippled development efforts across the country, particularly at the grassroots level where the impact is most severe.

HURPA further argued that imposing stiff penalties, including long-term imprisonment, would serve as a strong deterrent and restore public confidence in government institutions.

“When people see that tax looters are punished decisively, citizens will be more willing to comply with tax obligations,” the association added.

The group also called for greater transparency, independent audits, and stronger oversight mechanisms in tax collection and expenditure, urging anti-corruption agencies to prioritize cases involving the misuse of tax funds.

HURPA appealed to lawmakers to reflect these tough measures in ongoing tax reform policies, emphasizing that justice, accountability, and fairness must form the foundation of any successful tax system.

As Nigeria continues to pursue fiscal reforms amid economic challenges, the association maintained that safeguarding tax revenues is critical to national growth and social stability.