Nigerians don’t deserve this hardship, Atiku tells Tinubu

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Tinubu's administration for failing to protect Nigerians from economic hardship. In a statement by Phrank Shaibu, a spokesperson for Atiku's ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku expressed concern over President Tinubu's Independence Day address. Atiku pointed out that while the President touted prosperity, his policies have made fuel and basic necessities unaffordable.

He questioned Tinubu's claim that federal salaries and pensions are being paid on time and in full, as federal workers report delays and pensioners continue to protest. Atiku contrasted Germany's decision to cut gasoline and diesel taxes by €0.17 per litre from October to December, resulting in a cost of €2.5 billion and a subsequent decrease in pump prices.

He noted that when fuel prices rise, transport costs increase, leading to higher prices for food and other essentials. Atiku emphasized that Nigerians suffer from the filling station to the market and into their homes. Germany recognizes that when fuel prices burden families, the government must act. Atiku promised to restore targeted support for domestically refined fuel, with strict auditing and a guarantee to lower pump prices.

This support would follow the barrel refined in Nigeria, creating jobs and easing costs for Nigerians. It would not apply to imported fuel. Atiku apologized to every Nigerian forced to choose between feeding their family, paying for transport, or meeting other basic needs, stating that they did not deserve such hardship. He assured that lower fuel costs could mean cheaper bus rides, more affordable goods at markets, and more money in families' pockets. Atiku concluded by noting that Nigeria's wealth should ease the burden on its people.