‘₦70,000 can just buy 50 litres of fuel’, Atiku mocks Tinubu’s relief to workers

Former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar criticized the Federal Government's ₦70,000 monthly transport support for public service workers, claiming it is a last-ditch effort to mitigate public discontent. He asserts that the government's policies have made life unbearable for millions, highlighting that the cost of living crisis extends beyond transport.

The issues include energy, food, rent, and other essential expenses that impact daily life for every citizen. Atiku points out that while public servants will receive ₦70,000 monthly for transport starting in November, private sector workers, traders, small businesses, transport operators, and jobless individuals remain affected.

The allowance for some does not solve the national crisis, and the government has yet to address a new minimum wage and provide clarity on payment dates and eligibility. Atiku argues that ₦70,000, at around ₦1,400 per litre, only buys roughly 50 litres of petrol, which is insufficient to make a significant difference over a month.

He contends that the government's actions resemble throwing ice cubes at a raging fire, with previous attempts like the fuel discount and 90-day cost of living plan failing. The CNG programme, intended to lower transport costs, has also failed, contributing to the current unaffordable prices that families face. Atiku accuses the Tinubu administration of engaging in political bribery and corruption, offering temporary payments instead of addressing the root causes of the crisis.

He proposes a transparently managed production subsidy for fuel refined in Nigeria as a practical solution, urging Tinubu to stop punishing 250 million Nigerians for the corruption and leakages of a few thousand. Atiku emphasizes that while ₦70,000 may temporarily alleviate transport costs, it cannot explain the unaffordability of work, food, and running a business.

He calls for lasting relief, decent wages, and an economy that rewards honest work, questioning when Nigerians will experience affordable living once again.