Popoola Questions Tinubu's 30-Day Petrol Discount Plan

Public affairs analyst Oluwafemi Popoola has raised concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu's 30-day petrol discount, questioning its timing and potential benefits for ordinary Nigerians. This discount was announced on Thursday, October 8, allowing NNPC Retail to sell petrol at cost price for 30 days, prioritizing commercial transport operators.

Popoola noted that former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar had previously challenged Tinubu on petrol price management during the inauguration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council on Friday, October 9. Abubakar's proposal for targeted fuel support was reportedly adopted by the government but modified to exclude key elements.

Popoola emphasized that while some measures could alleviate supply pressures, the government must clarify how savings will reach consumers and what will happen after the discount period ends. He criticized the government's delay in providing protections for vulnerable citizens and suggested that the timing of the relief measures may be politically motivated, especially with the 2027 general election approaching.