Atiku argued that the removal of the subsidy has worsened the economic hardship facing Nigerians, pushing more citizens into abject poverty.
By Kehinde Okeowo
African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has countered a statement by one of his media aides, Paul Ibe, saying, “He didn’t speak on my authority.”
The former vice-president clarified his position while speaking during a meeting with stakeholders hours after an interview given by the spokesperson.
While appearing on AIT on Tuesday as a guest, Ibe told Nigerians that Atiku would not return Nigeria to the previous subsidy regime if elected president.
He added that the proposed return of the scheme would be temporary, stating that if elected in 2027, the ADC presidential flag bearer would phase out the subsidy.
“We are not returning to Egypt. We are not going back to the old regime that was opaque,” he said.
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Ibe further explained that the proposal would instead involve leveraging Nigeria’s crude oil resources to support domestic refining and reduce the cost of petroleum products.
Reacting to the assertions, Atiku distanced himself from the statement, saying Ibe did not speak on his behalf. He went on to say his administration, if elected, would fully restore the fuel subsidy.
“Earlier, one of my press aides contradicted me in a policy statement as far as the subsidy is concerned.
“I want to repeat categorically that when I said I would return the fuel subsidy, I will. Nigeria is rich enough to look after the welfare of its citizens.
“Let it be clearly stated that he was not speaking on my authority.”
The Adamawa State-born politician noted that Nigeria is wealthy enough to provide the necessary support for its citizens through a fuel subsidy.
”The removal of the fuel subsidy has driven more Nigerians into poverty than at any other time in the history of this country,” Atiku added.
