The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the federal government’s 30-day petrol discount initiative, accusing President Bola Tinubu of turning the programme into a political spectacle at the expense of NNPC Limited.
In a statement issued by the Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku questioned the legality and transparency of the discount arrangement.
He argued that NNPC Limited, following reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), operates as a commercial, publicly quoted company and should not be treated as an extension of government political interests.
According to Atiku, Nigerians deserve clarity on whether the discount programme received proper approval from the company’s board and how the financial implications would be reflected in its accounts.
The former vice president accused the administration of applying different standards to fuel pricing, arguing that government officials frequently cite market forces to justify pump prices but intervene when seeking political gains.
Atiku also questioned the effectiveness of the programme, noting that NNPC Retail operates just over 900 stations across the country, limiting access for many Nigerians.
He expressed concerns that motorists may spend additional time and fuel travelling to participating stations and waiting in queues, reducing the benefits of the discount.
The ADC candidate further challenged government claims that the programme did not amount to a subsidy, insisting that costs incurred under the scheme must ultimately be borne by someone.
He called for greater transparency regarding the programme’s funding structure and corporate approval process.
