Wike defends subsidy removal, slams Atiku over u-turn on policy

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, defended the decision to remove fuel subsidy and criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for changing his position on the policy. Wike accused Atiku of inconsistency and inconsistency, asking how Atiku planned to reintroduce the subsidy given the changes in Nigeria's petroleum industry.

Wike argued that presidential aspirants should have consistent policies and that removing the subsidy would prevent regulatory uncertainty and reduce inefficiencies. He urged Atiku to explain how he would use the savings from the subsidy removal. Wike defended President Bola Tinubu's policy, stating that it had resulted in increased allocations to government tiers and improved government ability to meet salary and pension obligations.

He also dismissed claims of increased armed robbery incidents in Abuja, stating that security reports did not support the assertion.