Atiku Blasts Tinubu Over Alleged Secret Fuel Subsidy Payments

(iexclusivenews) – In a scathing critique, former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s administration for allegedly continuing fuel subsidy payments covertly.

This development has ignited a fierce debate about government transparency and economic policy in Africa’s largest oil-producing nation.

Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, expressed his dismay through a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

He argued that the reported continuation of fuel subsidies, despite President Tinubu’s previous firm stance on their removal, severely undermines the administration’s credibility and moral standing.

The controversy stems from recent media reports suggesting that President Tinubu has given approval to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to use its 2023 final dividends owed to the federation to cover the cost of petrol subsidies.

This move apparently contradicts the President’s earlier public declarations about ending the subsidy regime, which were made in response to widespread protests against poor governance.

Fuel Scarcity and Economic Implications

Atiku’s criticism comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with severe fuel scarcity and escalating energy costs.

The former Vice President pointed out that the delayed reoperation of the Port Harcourt refinery stands as a “national disgrace,” placing the responsibility squarely on President Tinubu, who also serves as the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

The ongoing fuel crisis has had far-reaching effects on the Nigerian economy, with fuel shortages leading to price inflation across various sectors.

Atiku argues that the persistent denials from NNPCL regarding subsidy payments only exacerbate the suffering of ordinary Nigerians who are bearing the brunt of these economic challenges.

Adding to the complexity of the situation is a reported dispute within the petroleum sector between local investors favoring refinery operations and those advocating for imported Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Atiku expressed concern over President Tinubu’s silence on this matter, emphasizing the President’s responsibility to intervene in such critical disputes to protect national interests.

RELATED: Fuel Subsidy: Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Diverting Public Fund

Atiku Calls for Transparency and Accountability

The former Vice President’s statements highlight a growing demand for transparency in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

Atiku pointed to alarming reports of NNPCL allegedly diverting funds intended for other purposes to cover subsidy payments, describing the situation as “unbearably unsettling.”

If these reports prove true, Atiku warns, they could have serious implications for the integrity of Nigeria’s fiscal federalism.

He urges the Tinubu administration to provide urgent clarification on the complexities surrounding the subsidy policy and the refining of PMS.

Atiku’s critique underscores a broader call for transparent governance in Nigeria’s oil sector.

He argues that only through clear and honest communication can the government hope to address the current challenges of fuel scarcity and spiraling inflation affecting petroleum products.

As this controversy unfolds, it raises important questions about economic policy, government transparency, and the future of Nigeria’s crucial oil sector.

The Tinubu administration’s response to these allegations and its ability to navigate the complex landscape of fuel subsidies and domestic refining will likely have significant implications for both the country’s economy and its political landscape in the coming months.