Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring fuel subsidy if elected president in 2027, dismissing comments attributed to one of his aides as not representing his position.
Speaking on Channels Television, Atiku said he had received calls from Nigerians over the apparent contradiction between his subsidy policy and comments attributed to his press aide. He insisted that his position remained unchanged, saying, “I want to repeat categorically that when I said I will return subsidy, I will. Nigeria is rich enough to look after the welfare of its citizens.”
According to him, the aide was not speaking with his authority, arguing that the removal of fuel subsidy had worsened economic hardship and pushed more Nigerians into poverty.
He stressed that the welfare of citizens should remain a fundamental responsibility of government, while also pledging to improve the country’s security if elected.
Speaking on the 2027 election, the former vice president accused those in power of undermining Nigeria’s electoral and economic systems.
“We are competing with thieves. They stole the election. Now they have stolen the economy. They have stolen everything,” Atiku said.
He further said his administration would focus on protecting citizens, reducing economic hardship and improving Nigerians’ welfare.