Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the federal government to provide clear information regarding the petrol subsidy policy and the state of crude oil refining.
This demand follows growing concerns about the transparency of the processes involved.Atiku, who was the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has expressed dissatisfaction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing a lack of clarity in its governance.
In a post on his official X account, Atiku criticized the administration for its handling of the petrol subsidy, suggesting that the government’s actions are shrouded in secrecy and confusion.He pointed out that while President Tinubu had previously announced that the subsidy on petrol had been ended, recent reports indicate that the subsidy is still being applied in covert ways.
This discrepancy between the president’s public statements and the reality of the situation has raised concerns about the integrity of the administration’s actions.Atiku emphasized that transparent governance is essential for alleviating the severe fuel shortages and rising inflation that Nigerians are currently facing. He argued that only a clear and open approach to the subsidy policy can address these pressing issues effectively.Additionally, Atiku criticized the ongoing delay in reopening the Port Harcourt refinery, describing it as a major failure on the part of President Tinubu, who also serves as the minister of petroleum resources.
The delay in refinery operations has exacerbated the fuel scarcity problem and contributed to increased energy costs for Nigerians.He also expressed frustration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for its handling of the situation. Atiku noted that the continued denial of issues by the NNPC only worsens the difficulties faced by Nigerians due to fuel shortages and the resulting inflation in fuel prices.Moreover, Atiku raised concerns about possible financial mismanagement within NNPC.
Reports suggest that funds intended for other purposes may have been diverted to cover subsidy payments, adding to the confusion surrounding the petrol subsidy policy.
He warned that if these reports are accurate, they could have serious implications for the integrity of Nigeria’s fiscal policies and governance.In a related development, NNPC Limited has reported a significant financial gain, with its full-year profit increasing by 29% to N3.3 trillion.
Revenue also rose to N27.99 trillion, attributed to an increase in oil output. However, Atiku’s call for clarity underscores the need for transparency in how these funds and resources are managed to restore public trust and ensure fair governance.
