Rotimi Amaechi, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, has stated that he will withdraw his support for Atiku Abubakar and campaign for President Bola Tinubu if the price of petrol drops to N600 per litre. This statement was made during an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today. Amaechi's comment has sparked interest in the fuel subsidy debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The former Rivers State governor emphasized that the price of petrol would be a significant test of the Tinubu administration's economic policies. He suggested that if the government can reduce the pump price to N600, he would reconsider his position in the opposition ADC. Amaechi's statement has raised questions about his loyalty to Atiku, the ADC presidential candidate, and his potential support for Tinubu.
Amaechi also expressed his belief that Tinubu would not rig the 2027 presidential election, citing the potential consequences for the country. According to him, the level of economic hardship in Nigeria has created frustration among citizens, with many being tired and hungry. Amaechi's comments highlight the challenges facing the country and the need for effective economic policies.
The ADC vice-presidential candidate clarified that his relationship with Tinubu is not based on personal hatred, despite his opposition to the administration. Amaechi stated that he loves Tinubu and that his opposition is focused on policy issues. This statement has sparked debate about Amaechi's motivations and potential future alliances.
The Tinubu administration removed petrol subsidy on May 29, 2023, resulting in a sharp increase in petrol prices and wider effects on transportation, food prices, and the cost of doing business. The Federal Government has defended the policy as part of its broader economic reforms. Tinubu has argued that the subsidy had placed a heavy burden on government finances and that resources could be redirected to other areas of the economy.
Atiku Abubakar, the ADC presidential candidate, has taken a different position on fuel subsidy, pledging to restore it if elected president in 2027. Atiku's proposed intervention would focus on making petroleum products more affordable while supporting domestic refining. The Presidency has estimated that implementing Atiku's proposed petrol subsidy could cost the country about N19.1 trillion annually.
Amaechi has intensified his campaign activities ahead of the 2027 election, urging ADC members to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He has also warned that prominent opposition figures could leave active politics if the APC wins the 2027 election.
Key points
- Amaechi may switch support to Tinubu if fuel price drops to N600.
- Atiku and Tinubu have differing views on fuel subsidy.
- Amaechi urges ADC members to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 election.
