Atiku Abubakar, the Presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has reiterated his commitment to reintroducing petrol subsidy if he wins the presidency in 2027, sparking a renewed national discussion on this contentious issue.
It’s worth noting that Atiku, who advocated for the elimination of fuel subsidy during the 2023 presidential race, stated last week that he would bring back the same policy if he is elected in 2027.
His spokesperson, Paul Ibe, emphasized on Tuesday that this proposed measure would be temporary, designed to provide Nigerians and businesses with a chance to recover, boost economic activity, and enhance productivity.
This proposal has faced backlash from President Bola Tinubu, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and several other notable figures.
Additionally, experts have shared their insights, with some endorsing the proposal as a means to rejuvenate the economy, while others disagree.
Dr. Ishak: Fuel subsidy is a political illusion, not the solution Nigeria requires.
Dr. Suleiman Ishak Muhammad, a lecturer in the Department of Criminology and Security Studies at the Federal University Dutse (FUD), characterized the idea of reinstating fuel subsidy as a political illusion.
In an exclusive interview with Footynaija, he argued that Nigeria should focus on economic diversification and strengthening institutions instead of reverting to subsidy policies.
Ishak suggested that discussions should center around diversifying the economy, generating employment, enhancing electricity supply, and combating corruption, rather than making promises to restore fuel subsidy.
He pointed out that fuel subsidy was initially introduced in