Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s comparison of fuel subsidy relief to the biblical account of Moses and Egypt, saying Nigerians need practical solutions to the rising cost of living.
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, said the President’s reference to subsidy removal on his first day in office did not address the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians.
He spoke on Tuesday through Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
According to Atiku, Nigerians want concrete measures to make essential goods and services more affordable rather than references to past policy decisions.
“Nigerians are asking how you intend to make life affordable. A mother trying to feed her children and a worker commuting to work need practical answers,” Atiku said.
Atiku Proposes Targeted Fuel Support
The former Vice-President outlined his proposal for reducing the burden of fuel prices, advocating limited government support for verified petroleum products refined locally.
“My proposal is clear: give limited, budgeted support only to verified petroleum products refined in Nigeria and sold to Nigerians. Imported fuel gets nothing. Independent auditors must track every naira, and the benefit must reach consumers in the price they pay. If it does not lower that price, it has failed its purpose,” he said.
Atiku’s proposal would restrict the support to locally refined petroleum products, with independent auditors monitoring public spending to ensure consumers benefit through lower prices.
Atiku Raises Security Concerns
The ADC presidential candidate also urged the Federal Government to brief Nigerians on measures being taken to improve security across the country.
He referenced the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s handling of security challenges, stressing the need for practical steps to protect communities.
Atiku said Nigerians should be able to travel, farm and work without fear, calling for greater attention to the safety of citizens across the country.
Former Vice-President Calls for Better Police Welfare
Atiku also highlighted concerns over the welfare of serving and retired police officers, particularly issues relating to salaries and pensions.
He urged the Federal Government to take action on the Police Exit Bill and review the salaries of serving officers, similar to measures introduced for members of the Armed Forces.
The former Vice-President said improving police welfare was essential to supporting officers and their families while strengthening public safety.
“Nigerians deserve affordable fuel, safe communities and police officers who can serve without sacrificing their families’ future,” he said.
Chronicle NG reports that Atiku’s remarks focused on fuel affordability, national security and improved welfare for serving and retired police officers.
