Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Bola Tinubu administration over the removal of the petrol subsidy, arguing that the government’s economic reforms have worsened hardship for millions of Nigerians.
Atiku, a leading opposition figure and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said the impact of subsidy removal had contributed to rising living costs and weakened the purchasing power of households. He argued that increased government revenue from the policy had not translated into sufficient improvements in the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
The former vice president has repeatedly challenged the Federal Government’s presentation of the subsidy policy, particularly its claim that the resulting savings and increased revenues are improving living conditions. He maintained that Nigerians continue to bear the consequences through higher transportation, food and other household costs.
Atiku’s latest criticism comes amid an ongoing national debate over the economic consequences of President Tinubu’s reforms. The administration has defended subsidy removal as necessary to reduce pressure on government finances and redirect resources towards infrastructure and other development priorities.
The disagreement is significant because fuel prices have a direct impact on the cost of transportation and the movement of goods across Nigeria. Higher transport and energy costs can also feed into food prices and business operating expenses, placing additional pressure on households and enterprises.
Atiku has proposed an alternative approach to fuel subsidy intervention, arguing that any support should be targeted, capped, budgeted and time-bound rather than returning to the previous subsidy system.
The former vice president’s comments also come as political parties and opposition figures position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections, making economic hardship and the government’s reform agenda increasingly important political issues.
President Tinubu announced the removal of the petrol subsidy at his inauguration in May 2023, beginning one of the administration’s most consequential economic reforms. The policy has remained a major source of debate, with supporters citing fiscal benefits while critics continue to highlight its impact on the cost of living.
