Tinubu Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal, Cites Salary Issues

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu defended the removal of fuel subsidies during a meeting with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the State House in Abuja. He stated that 27 states were struggling to pay workers' salaries, which he used to argue against the reinstatement of fuel subsidies, a policy scrapped by his administration three years ago.

Tinubu criticized Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, for his promise to restore the subsidy, calling it a demonstration of ignorance regarding governance and economic management. He emphasized that many states were financially strained and dependent on federal support, which hindered their ability to fulfill responsibilities such as paying salaries and providing essential services.

Tinubu highlighted the importance of government resources for infrastructure, healthcare, and education, stressing that local governments play a crucial role in serving Nigeria's population.