Atiku condemns Tinubu fuel policy as 67.4% of Nigerians reject subsidy removal
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned President Bola Tinubu’s fuel subsidy removal after an survey by SBM Intelligence showed 67.4% of Nigerians rejected the policy. Speaking through his media aide Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the result as a damning public verdict on an administration that, he said, has worsened the cost of living for three and a half years. He listed exploding transport costs, soaring food prices, collapsed businesses, eroded purchasing power and millions pushed deeper into poverty as direct consequences of the policy.
Atiku urged immediate relief, arguing that the survey reflects a democratic question: when an overwhelming majority says a government policy destroys their lives, leadership must listen. He reiterated his call for the return of the fuel subsidy, stating that the policy has been rejected and the government responsible must also be rejected.
President Tinubu, who is seeking re-election in 2027, has countered that reinstating the subsidy would cause more hardship for Nigerians. The Daily Post reported that Atiku had previously proposed subsidy restoration, but the administration remains firm.
The debate highlights a growing divide over economic management as Nigerians grapple with high inflation and reduced disposable income ahead of the 2027 elections.