Governors, not Tinubu, should account for subsidy gains – Abiodun

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has argued that state governors, not President Bola Tinubu, should be responsible for explaining how the gains from petrol subsidy removal are being utilized. At an All Progressives Congress rally in Ijebu-Ode, Abiodun emphasized that governors are in a better position to account for the funds because state allocations have increased as a result of the subsidy removal.

He questioned why some were seeking to bring back the subsidy, asserting that it is the governors who receive the funds. Abiodun highlighted that the money has been used to finance infrastructure and support programs across the states, including the construction of airports, roads, schools, housing, and incentives for farmers. He also dismissed opposition parties' chances in the 2027 elections, vowing that the APC would decisively defeat them.

The debate over the financial implications of petrol subsidy removal has gained prominence ahead of the 2027 polls, with opposition figures demanding greater transparency in how the extra revenue is being allocated. Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice-President, has been among those advocating for stronger accountability over the funds, even proposing a return to a modified fuel subsidy if elected president.

The administration of President Tinubu has defended the decision to end the subsidy, claiming it liberated resources that were previously used to maintain artificially low petrol prices. The Federal Government has released figures indicating that the subsidy removal has resulted in a savings of N15.8tn between June 2023 and December 2025.