Atiku Wants Fuel Subsidy Back — Tinubu, Obi & Sowore Disagree

Atiku Abubakar says he will restore a form of fuel subsidy if elected President in 2027 — and the statement has reopened one of Nigeria’s biggest economic debates. But Atiku says his proposal would not simply return Nigeria to the old fuel subsidy system. His camp argues for targeted support linked to domestic refining. Peter Obi and Omoyele Sowore disagree with returning to subsidy, while President Bola Tinubu’s government argues that restoring petrol subsidy would put Nigeria back under serious fiscal pressure. So who actually has a realistic plan for cheaper fuel? In this editorial, we look beyond party politics to examine what Atiku is proposing, why the Tinubu administration disagrees, the positions of Peter Obi and Sowore, what subsidy removal has meant for Nigerians, and the questions every side must answer before 2027. The question is simple: should Nigeria restore a targeted fuel subsidy, or should subsidy remain permanently removed while government finds other ways to reduce the cost of living? Share your view respectfully in the comments.