Atiku Challenges Tinubu on Rising Refinery Obligations

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take responsibility for the financial obligations of Nigeria’s refineries, which he claims rose from approximately ₦4.52 trillion at the end of 2023 to ₦8.67 trillion by the end of 2024, marking an increase of ₦4.15 trillion during Tinubu's administration. Atiku, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, criticized Tinubu for labeling the refineries as inherited liabilities after previously celebrating their rehabilitation.

He pointed out that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had reported that the refineries were operating at a “monumental loss.” Atiku questioned the lack of transparency regarding the funds spent, asking where the money went and what benefits Nigerians received. He expressed concern over high petrol prices and the mismanagement of public resources, emphasizing that the government has failed to deliver results despite significant investments in the refineries.