Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the rising cost of living, arguing that economic reforms should not leave Nigerians struggling to meet basic needs.
Atiku made the remarks in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communications of his campaign council, where he also faulted Tinubu’s Independence Day address for what he described as a disconnect between government’s economic messaging and Nigerians’ daily experiences.
He said many families were skipping meals, struggling with rising transport costs and exhausting their earnings before the end of the month.
Atiku particularly criticised the President’s description of fuel subsidies as “addictive” and challenged his claim that salaries and pensions were being paid “on time and in full”.
He contrasted Nigeria’s approach with Germany’s temporary reduction of petrol and diesel taxes by about €0.17 per litre from October to December 2026. The German government said the measure would provide about €2.5 billion in relief to households and businesses.
“When petrol becomes more expensive, transport becomes more expensive. When transport costs rise, food and other essentials cost more,” Atiku said.
“The hardship follows Nigerians from the filling station to the market and into their homes. Germany understands that when fuel prices put families under pressure, the government must act. Nigerians deserve the same compassion and urgency.”
Atiku proposed restoring targeted and budgeted support for locally refined petrol, backed by strict auditing and measures to ensure the benefit translates into lower pump prices.
“Support will follow the barrel refined here, creating jobs here and easing costs for Nigerians,” he stated.
He said the scheme would be funded by cutting waste and protected against diversion and price manipulation, while excluding imported petroleum products.
According to Atiku, lower fuel costs would help reduce transportation expenses, make goods more affordable and leave households with more disposable income.
He expressed sympathy for Nigerians struggling with the cost of living and called for stronger measures to cushion the impact of the government’s reforms.
“To every Nigerian forced to choose between feeding a family, paying for transport or meeting another basic need, I am deeply sorry. You did not deserve this hardship,” he said.
Atiku argued that economic reforms should ultimately improve living conditions rather than leave citizens bearing the burden.
“Tinubu made life unbearably expensive and called your suffering the price of reform. I will make life affordable again,” he added.
He said his proposed approach would focus on expanding local fuel production, creating jobs and reducing the cost of living.
