Atiku rejects FG’s 30-day fuel discount, labels it publicity stunt
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 30-day petrol discount at NNPC stations, describing it as a temporary measure that cannot address the hardship caused by high fuel prices.
Atiku’s position was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Phrank Shaibu, director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
The Federal Government had announced a discount on petrol sold at NNPC stations for 30 days, with priority given to public transport operators. Atiku described the move as a “panic-driven publicity stunt” and an attempt to offer Nigerians temporary relief after years of rising fuel prices.
“Atiku totally rejects this calendar-scheduled, election-laced subsidy package. Nigerians are not fools to be offered a month of discounted fuel after years of punishing prices and then expected to forget the hardship when the discount expires,” he said.
Atiku questioned what would happen after the 30-day period, saying Nigerians would return to high fuel prices, transport fares and food costs once the discount expires.
He also noted that the discount would be limited to NNPC stations and questioned how much motorists would save per litre. He further urged the government to guarantee that any savings for transport operators would be passed on to passengers through lower fares.
The former vice president reiterated his proposal for capped and budgeted production support tied to fuel refined in Nigeria, with safeguards to ensure that the benefits reach consumers while supporting local refining.
“Nigerians need lasting relief, not a countdown to the return of hardship. Tinubu’s government cannot spend years telling Nigerians to endure, then offer 30 days of relief and call it a solution,” Atiku said.
