Obi Rejects Fuel Subsidy Return; Kwankwaso Advocates Alternative

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly rejected calls for the restoration of fuel subsidy while advocating for the establishment of state police. Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Obi emphasized the need to remove the subsidy, arguing that mismanagement should not hinder its removal.

He stated that the funds saved should be invested in critical sectors like healthcare and education. Obi also welcomed the passage of the State Police Bill by the National Assembly but expressed concerns about its implementation.

In contrast, his running mate, Kwankwaso, stated in an Arise TV interview that their administration would reintroduce fuel subsidy in a different form, suggesting investments in refineries to ensure affordable petrol. Kwankwaso also opposed the establishment of state police, attributing the demand to failures within Nigeria's federal security system.