The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has vowed to restore fuel subsidies if elected President in the 2027 general elections.

Atiku stated this during a Hausa-speaking interview on the PAP show on Wednesday, saying anyone who had stolen funds meant for fuel subsidy would be made to return the money if he assumes office.

Tinubu announced the end of petrol subsidy during his inauguration on May 29, 2023, describing the scheme as unsustainable.

On Wednesday the Federal Government said the removal of the petrol subsidy and the liberalisation of the naira have generated N15.8 trillion in savings for the federation between June 2023 and December 2025.

However, during the interview, the former Vice President said despite the removal of fuel subsidy, the Tinubu administration had failed to improve the lives of Nigerians.

Atiku acknowledged that he initially supported the removal but said developments since then had changed his position.

“I initially did not oppose the removal of the fuel subsidy. But now that it has been removed, where is the money?” Atiku said.

The presidential candidate pledged to reverse the policy if he defeats Tinubu in the January 2027 presidential election.

He added, “If I win the presidential election, I will restore the subsidy. And anyone who stole Nigeria’s subsidy funds must return the money. Now it has been removed. Where is the money? If the funds were used to improve healthcare, education, insecurity, security and youth empowerment, things would have been better.”

Atiku also questioned the N15 trillion the Tinubu administration said it had saved, arguing injustice and corruption among political leaders were the main reasons Nigerians are suffering.

He said in the past, those who stole public funds were forced to return their loots. (Daily Trust)

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