Tinubu knocks Atiku over subsidy promise

By Philippine Duru

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his reported promise to restore fuel subsidy if elected, describing the position as a demonstration of “serious ignorance” of government and economic management.

Tinubu made the remarks while defending the economic reforms introduced by his administration, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy, which has remained one of the most contentious aspects of his government’s economic policy.

According to the President, returning to the subsidy regime would amount to reversing efforts to address longstanding structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s public finances.

“One of my opponents says he will go back to subsidy; that is a demonstration of serious ignorance in government and economy,” Tinubu said, referring to Atiku’s position on fuel subsidy.

The President also recalled the financial difficulties confronting several state governments before he assumed office, saying 27 states were unable to pay workers’ salaries and depended heavily on the Federal Government for financial support.

“Before I came into government, 27 states were unable to pay salaries of workers; they came to the federal cap in hand, unable to do anything,” he said.

Tinubu argued that the reforms undertaken by his administration were necessary to strengthen government revenues, improve fiscal sustainability and reduce dependence on costly interventions.

The removal of the petrol subsidy in May 2023 triggered a sharp increase in fuel prices and contributed to heightened cost-of-living pressures across the country. The government has, however, maintained that the policy was necessary to free up funds for infrastructure, social programmes and other developmental priorities.

Atiku and other critics of the subsidy removal have continued to advocate alternative measures to reduce the burden of rising living costs on Nigerians, arguing that the government should adopt policies that protect households and businesses from the impact of higher energy prices.

Tinubu’s latest comments have further intensified the economic policy debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with political actors divided over whether Nigeria should maintain the current fuel pricing regime or return to some form of government subsidy.

The exchange highlights the growing importance of economic policy in the 2027 political contest, particularly issues surrounding fuel prices, public spending, government revenue and the welfare of Nigerians.