Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s 90-day economic relief plan, describing it as an attempt to influence voters ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku, through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, accused the Federal Government of making fresh promises without addressing the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, he questioned the timing of the initiative, arguing that the 90-day period would extend beyond the presidential election.
The ADC presidential candidate urged Nigerians to judge the administration by its record, particularly on food prices, transportation costs, taxation and support for vulnerable households.
He also criticised the removal of petrol subsidy, saying measures to protect low-income families should have accompanied the policy, given its impact on transportation, food and production costs.
Atiku further questioned the effectiveness of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s reported fuel discount programme, claiming that motorists were still paying high prices at some retail outlets.
He challenged the NNPC to disclose the number of motorists who benefited from the discount, the participating stations and the volume of petrol sold at reduced prices.
On food affordability and tax harmonisation, Atiku demanded details of the government’s proposed measures, including the charges to be reduced, the infrastructure projects expected to be completed and the criteria for accessing household assistance.
He also raised concerns about a registration form reportedly circulating under the name “Arise for Tinubu 2027”, which he claimed requested voters’ identification and bank details. He called for clarification on who was collecting the information and how it would be used.
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Atiku maintained that economic policies should be measured by their impact on household purchasing power rather than official announcements and deadlines.
He challenged President Tinubu to explain whether Nigerians were better off than they were in May 2023 and whether households would still be able to afford food after the 90-day relief period.
