A tiki Faults FG’s 30-Day Petrol Discount, Seeks Lasting Relief

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has faulted the Federal Government’s decision to introduce a 30-day petrol discount at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) stations, describing it as inadequate to ease Nigerians’ economic hardship.

Atiku said the measure offered only temporary relief while leaving the underlying challenges of high fuel prices, transportation costs and the rising cost of living unresolved.

He stated this in a statement issued on Thursday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council.

The former vice-president questioned the timing of the intervention, alleging that the Tinubu administration was introducing the measure as the 2027 general elections approached.

He argued that Nigerians had endured years of rising living and transportation costs without sufficient relief.

Atiku also questioned the sustainability of the discount, asking what would happen when the 30-day period expired and petrol prices returned to their previous levels.

He expressed concern that the initiative was limited to NNPCL stations, while the government had not clarified the amount motorists would save per litre.

The former vice-president further questioned how the savings would translate into lower transport fares for commuters.

According to him, the policy represents a departure from the administration’s earlier position on fuel subsidies.

Atiku said the development also reinforced his argument that a production-support model could help reduce the burden of petrol prices on consumers.

He reiterated his proposal for a capped and budgeted production-support scheme tied to petrol refined locally.

He said the proposed arrangement should include safeguards to ensure that the benefits reached consumers while supporting domestic refineries.

Atiku maintained that Nigerians required a sustainable solution to the cost-of-living crisis rather than temporary interventions.

He reaffirmed his commitment to policies aimed at making essential goods and services more affordable for Nigerians.