Omokri Warns Atiku on Fuel Subsidy and Border Reopening

Reno Omokri, the Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua, cautioned that Atiku Abubakar's proposals to reopen Nigeria's land borders and reintroduce fuel subsidy could have severe repercussions. Omokri's warning came in response to Atiku's statements regarding his plans if elected president in the 2027 general election.

Atiku argued that reopening borders would revive trans-border trade disrupted by restrictions. However, Omokri contended that such actions would lead to significant smuggling of petroleum products and exacerbate Nigeria's economic and security challenges.

He referenced a previous period when fuel subsidies and open borders resulted in approximately 25 million litres of subsidised fuel being smuggled daily. Omokri also expressed concerns that unrestricted border openings could facilitate the influx of weapons by terrorists and bandits.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu had already reopened some borders, emphasizing the need for adequate security personnel before further border openings to protect Nigeria's security and economy.