Atiku Disowns Aide's Comments on Fuel Subsidy Policy

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), publicly disowned comments made by his media aide, Paul Ibe, concerning fuel subsidy. Ibe suggested in an interview that Atiku would restore the petrol subsidy but phase it out gradually as the economy improves.

Atiku clarified his stance on August 25, 2023, during a meeting with ADC leadership in Abuja, stating that Ibe was not authorized to speak on his behalf. He asserted his intention to restore targeted fuel subsidies to ease the financial burden on Nigerians, linking rising fuel prices to the broader cost-of-living crisis under President Bola Tinubu's administration.

Atiku criticized the handling of funds saved from subsidy removal, alleging corruption, and emphasized that his policy would focus on supporting local production and enhancing purchasing power. He also outlined a broader agenda aimed at improving economic and physical security for Nigerians.