Atiku clarifies stance on fuel subsidy and disowns aide’s comments
Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring fuel subsidy if elected, distancing himself from statements made by his media aide, Paul Ibe. He emphasized that his proposed subsidy would focus on supporting local refining and production, not the previous import-driven system. Atiku criticized the current administration’s removal of subsidy and pledged to make life more affordable for Nigerians. His team clarified that policy positions come directly from him, not his spokespeople.
What we know
- Atiku Abubakar stated he will restore fuel subsidy, insisting his position has not changed despite contrary remarks from his aide, Paul Ibe.
- The proposed subsidy would be targeted, capped, and transparently managed to support domestic refining and lower energy costs.
- Atiku emphasized the intervention would be temporary and phased out as local refining capacity improves and the market stabilizes.
- He criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for removing subsidies and implementing economic reforms without adequate support for Nigerians.
- Atiku’s team clarified that only he, not his spokespeople, determines official policy positions.
