Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed strong reservations about the Federal Government's proposed 30-day fuel discount at NNPC stations. In a statement released on Thursday, October 8, 2026, Atiku described the plan as a desperate and temporary measure that fails to address the root causes of the fuel crisis. He argued that the plan is a publicity stunt aimed at swaying public opinion ahead of the upcoming elections.
Atiku's statement, issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, accused the Tinubu administration of being reckless and disgraceful in its handling of the fuel crisis. Atiku claimed that the government had previously shown a lack of concern for the welfare of Nigerians, who have endured hardship due to high fuel prices. He questioned the government's motives, suggesting that the discount is an attempt to buy votes rather than provide meaningful relief.
The proposed 30-day discount has been criticized for its limitations and lack of clarity. Atiku pointed out that the offer is restricted to NNPC stations and that the government has not specified how much motorists will save per liter or guaranteed that transport operators will pass on the savings to passengers. He argued that this limited and temporary measure cannot be a substitute for a comprehensive economic plan to address the fuel crisis.
Atiku also questioned the government's sudden change of heart on the fuel subsidy issue, suggesting that it is an admission of guilt over the hardship Nigerians have endured. He argued that the government's repeated claims that meaningful relief was impossible have been proven wrong by its own actions. Atiku reiterated his proposal for a capped and budgeted production support tied to fuel refined in Nigeria, with safeguards to ensure that the benefit reaches consumers and supports local refining.
The former Vice President emphasized that Nigerians need lasting relief, not a temporary fix. He argued that the government's plan is a "calendar-scheduled, election-laced subsidy package" that will only provide relief for a month, after which Nigerians will face the same high prices and punishing transport fares. Atiku claimed that his proposal is workable, achievable, and not complicated, and that it can provide sustainable relief to Nigerians.
Atiku restated his commitment to making life affordable again, contrasting his approach with that of President Tinubu, who he claimed has made life expensive. Atiku's statement reflects his ongoing criticism of the Tinubu administration's handling of the economy and his determination to offer an alternative approach. The development highlights the ongoing debate over the best way to address Nigeria's fuel crisis and provide relief to citizens.
The controversy over the fuel discount plan comes as Nigerians continue to face significant economic challenges. The issue has sparked a wider conversation about the government's priorities and its commitment to addressing the welfare of citizens. Atiku's criticism of the plan reflects a broader debate over the most effective way to address the country's economic challenges and provide relief to those affected by the fuel crisis.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar criticizes Tinubu's 30-day fuel discount plan as a panic-driven publicity stunt.
- The plan is limited to NNPC stations and lacks clarity on savings per liter and transport fares.
- Atiku proposes a capped and budgeted production support tied to fuel refined in Nigeria.
