Wike: Tinubu Can't Control State Subsidy Revenue Spending

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, asserted that President Bola Tinubu does not have the authority to dictate how state and local governments spend the additional revenue generated from the removal of the fuel subsidy. Wike made these remarks during a media parley in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, responding to comments from former Anambra State governor Peter Obi regarding the use of funds from the subsidy removal.

Wike emphasized that the Federal Government has already distributed the gains to sub-national governments, which are now responsible for their financial decisions. He stated that rather than criticizing the Federal Government, Obi should focus on how states are utilizing the increased allocations.

Wike noted that the removal of the subsidy has alleviated financial pressures on many states, enabling them to meet obligations such as salaries and pensions while also implementing development projects. He defended Tinubu's decision to remove the subsidy as a courageous policy choice and called for accountability from states regarding the increased revenue.