Atiku’s fuel subsidy pledge sparks debate
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rekindled fresh conversations on petrol subsidy following his pledge to restore it if elected president in the 2027 general elections, reversing his earlier position that he did not oppose the removal of the subsidy. Atiku made the pledge during an interview session […]
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reignited discussions about petrol subsidies with his pledge to restore the program if elected president in 2027. This position contrasts with his earlier stance that he did not oppose the removal of the subsidy. During a Facebook Live interview, Atiku criticized the economic consequences of removing the subsidy and questioned the utilization of the announced savings.
He argued that the cost of living continues to rise despite the removal of fuel subsidies, while public services have not improved. Atiku emphasized that the funds should have been allocated to healthcare, education, security, and youth employment. He pledged to investigate the management of subsidy funds and recover any allegedly stolen money.
President Bola Tinubu announced the end of petrol subsidies during his inauguration in May 2023, citing financial unsustainability and the need to redirect resources towards development priorities. The government reported that the reforms generated N15.8 trillion in savings between 2023 and 2025. However, Atiku contends that the benefits have not been effectively delivered to ordinary Nigerians and questions the practicality of his proposal given the current dynamics in the global market.
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