Arabic version: أتيكو ينتقد تينوبو بشأن الدعم والمعاناة

According to Allafrica, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s defence of the removal of the petrol subsidy, saying the president was responsible for economic hardship Nigerians were seeking to escape.

Atiku, identified as the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, responded to Tinubu’s comparison of calls for fuel subsidy relief with asking Moses to return to Egypt. In a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku said the comparison showed “how little he understands the suffering of Nigerians”.

He said Tinubu’s decision to remove the subsidy on his first day in office was being portrayed as a political achievement despite difficulties faced by households and businesses. Atiku cited rising transport costs, food prices and problems businesses face in accessing electricity, and called for practical measures to make life more affordable.

His proposal called for limited, budgeted support only for verified petroleum products refined in Nigeria and sold within the country. Imported fuel, he said, should receive no support, while independent auditors should track every naira and ensure any benefit is reflected in consumer prices.

Atiku also faulted the administration over insecurity and police welfare. He said the president should take responsibility for security challenges, and called for action on the Police Exit Bill and a review of serving officers’ salaries. He also cited a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police who reportedly said he received a monthly pension of ₦29,000.