Atiku: 2027 choice is between economy that takes from you or one that gives to you

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has criticised President Bola Tinubu's administration for worsening the cost-of-living crisis and eroding Nigerians' purchasing power through its economic policies. In a statement, Atiku said Nigerians are being forced to pay more for fuel, food, transportation, and other necessities while household incomes continue to shrink.

He criticized the removal of fuel subsidies under Tinubu, which has led to soaring petrol, transport, and food prices, as well as struggling businesses.

Atiku also attacked the administration's opposition to his proposed Production Subsidy, designed to support domestic production, increase supply, and ultimately reduce prices for consumers. He argued that Tinubu did not inherit the cost-of-living crisis, but rather created and deepened it through his policies. The former vice-president highlighted the impact of the economic crisis on businesses, citing the example of a frozen-food seller in Abuja who now spends more on transportation, electricity, and restocking while customers have less money to spend.

Atiku provided evidence of the pressure faced by Nigerians, listing the rising prices of fertiliser, petrol, cement, and the naira's depreciation. He questioned the limited benefits of the government's economic reforms for ordinary Nigerians, pointing out issues such as unreliable electricity, lack of loans for degrees, and no security or N-Power programs. He urged Nigerians not to wait for more lectures on patience, but rather needed relief from the economic crisis.

The 2027 election, Atiku said, would present Nigerians with a choice between continuing with an economy that takes more from citizens or building one that puts money back into their pockets. He urged voters to reject policies that have made life increasingly difficult and support a program focused on lowering living costs and expanding domestic production. His slogan for the campaign was: "Tinubu made life expensive. Atiku will make life affordable again."