Atiku Abubakar Critiques FG's Petrol Discount Plan

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the Federal Government's introduction of a 30-day petrol discount at NNPC filling stations, labeling it as inadequate, selective, and politically motivated. In a statement from the Atiku Media Office issued in Abuja, he argued that the measure contradicted the Tinubu administration's previous claims of abolishing petrol subsidies.

The statement highlighted that the government’s current actions, including negotiating petrol price ceilings and offering discounted sales, raised questions about its earlier position. Atiku's office expressed skepticism about whether the policy change was due to economic realities or the upcoming 2027 general elections.

While acknowledging any efforts to alleviate hardship for Nigerians, the statement warned against temporary measures being used for political gain. Concerns were also raised regarding the accessibility of the discount, as many Nigerians might have to travel long distances to reach NNPC stations, which reportedly had a petrol availability rate of 52% across its network.