Presidency Critiques Atiku's Conflicting Subsidy Stance

The Presidency has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, of politicizing the fuel subsidy issue as the 2027 general elections approach. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, expressed concerns over conflicting statements from Atiku's camp, which have created confusion regarding his actual stance on the subsidy policy.

Onanuga noted that within a week, Nigerians received three different explanations about Atiku's intentions. Initially, Atiku's spokesperson, Paul Ibe, stated that Atiku would restore the subsidy and later phase it out.

However, Phrank Shaibu, another senior aide, rejected this characterization, asserting that Atiku would not set a specific end date for the subsidy, which would remain until domestic refining and fuel supply stabilize. Atiku later reiterated his original position, promising a "targeted subsidy." Onanuga challenged Atiku to clarify the implications of this proposal, including its costs and beneficiaries.