Atiku Abubakar Warns Against Misinterpreting Economic Relief

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cautioned Nigerians not to confuse temporary relief from the rising cost of living with genuine economic recovery. In a statement released on Tuesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku accused President Bola Tinubu's administration of addressing economic hardships only as the 2027 elections draw near.

Shaibu pointed out the contradiction in Tinubu condemning Atiku's proposal to reduce energy costs while simultaneously promising cheaper transportation, increased food production, and relief for vulnerable Nigerians. He highlighted that Nigerians have faced high transport fares, soaring food prices, and crippling energy costs for over three years.

Shaibu questioned the delayed recognition by the government that economic growth must benefit citizens directly. He criticized the high petrol prices in Nigeria, arguing that being a major oil producer should lead to lower energy costs, citing examples of lower petrol prices in countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

He concluded that Nigerians are being offered a "temporary dose of political anaesthesia" as the 2027 elections approach.