Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Using ₦66 Petrol Discount to Gain Political Support

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of using a ₦66-per-litre petrol discount to gain political support while questioning the financial implications of the initiative.

Atiku made the allegation in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council. He argued that the discount could generate political goodwill for the president without providing sufficient relief to Nigerians struggling with high fuel prices.

According to reports, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) introduced the 30-day petrol discount as part of efforts to reduce the cost of fuel for consumers.

The ADC presidential candidate questioned whether NNPC Limited’s board approved the discount before it was publicly announced and demanded clarification on who would bear the financial cost.

Atiku argued that NNPC Limited operates as a commercial company under the Petroleum Industry Act and should not be treated as a convenient source of funds for political publicity.

He also called for transparency regarding the company’s financial arrangements, including the profit margin it would forgo and how the cost would be reflected in its accounts.

Atiku further questioned whether the discount would provide meaningful relief to Nigerians across the country, noting that access to participating NNPC filling stations could be a challenge for motorists living far from the outlets.

He argued that some consumers might have to travel considerable distances, wait in queues and use an app to access the discount, potentially reducing the benefits they receive.

The former vice president also challenged the administration’s position that the initiative did not amount to a return to fuel subsidy, insisting that the financial implications of the arrangement should be clearly explained.

The controversy comes amid continuing public concerns over petrol prices and the cost of living in Nigeria.

While the discount offers a temporary reduction in the price paid by eligible consumers at participating outlets, questions remain about its overall reach, duration and financial implications.

Atiku’s comments have brought renewed attention to the debate over fuel affordability, the management of NNPC Limited and the government’s approach to providing economic relief.

The allegation that the discount is intended to generate political support remains Atiku’s position. The questions he raised about the arrangement’s approval and cost concern the transparency and implementation of the initiative.