Peter Obi Plans Fuel Subsidy Reform Amid Corruption Issues

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the 2027 elections, stated his administration would retain the fuel subsidy but would focus on eliminating the corruption that has historically affected the scheme. During an interview with the BBC on a Tuesday, Obi was asked if he would restore the subsidy regime, to which he linked Nigeria's subsidy issues primarily to corruption rather than the subsidy itself.

He highlighted personal conduct as essential for reforming the system. Obi drew a distinction between himself and former President Muhammadu Buhari, who removed the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, upon taking office, a decision that faced criticism from opposition figures including Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

The current administration has defended the subsidy removal as being in the country's best interest. Additionally, Obi addressed the potential for opposition parties to unite around a single candidate for the 2027 elections, firmly rejecting the idea of stepping aside.

Obi joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress on May 29, 2026, after leaving the African Democratic Congress on May 2, 2026, and was ratified as the party's presidential candidate on the same day he defected.