Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring the fuel subsidy if elected, while distancing himself from comments by his aide, Phrank Shaibu, that appeared to contradict his position.
‘My aide was not speaking with my authority’
Atiku said Shaibu did not have his authority to make remarks suggesting a position different from his policy on subsidy removal.
“Let me make it clear that my aide, Phrank Shaibu, was not speaking with my authority when he made remarks that contradict my policy on subsidy removal.”
The former vice president maintained that his position on the issue remains clear and that he would reverse the subsidy policy.
Subsidy removal has worsened poverty — Atiku
According to Atiku, the removal of the subsidy has increased economic hardship and pushed more Nigerians into poverty.
He argued that the government’s primary responsibility should be to protect the welfare and living standards of citizens.
“Nigeria is rich enough to take care of the welfare of its citizens.”
Promises stronger security
Beyond the economy, Atiku also pledged to prioritise national security if elected, saying his administration would take decisive steps to protect Nigerians.
He accused those currently in power of exploiting the country’s political and economic systems.
‘They stole the election and are stealing from the economy’
Atiku alleged that the country is being mismanaged by those in government, accusing them of both electoral malpractice and economic theft.
“We are competing against thieves: they stole the election, and now they are stealing from the economy.”
The ADC candidate said restoring citizens’ welfare and securing the country would be central to his agenda.
Atiku: I Will Categorically Return Subsidy, Disregard Unauthorised Remark from My Aide
Nigeria is rich enough to take care of the welfare of its citizens. Let me make it clear that my aide, Phrank Shaibu, was not speaking with my authority when he made remarks that contradict my… pic.twitter.com/ZJhXglIf25
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) August 26, 2026
