The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council has challenged Atiku Abubakar to explain his proposed petrol subsidy plan. The council wants details on its legal, fiscal and practical framework.
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, recently urged President Bola Tinubu to reduce petrol and diesel prices. He also proposed a production subsidy for locally refined petroleum products. However, APC spokesman Dele Alake said the proposal raises serious questions under the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.
Alake cited Section 205(1) of the law, which supports free-market pricing for petroleum products. He asked Atiku to explain how the government would force subsidised refineries to lower pump prices. He also demanded details about the funding. According to the APC, the plan could cost between ₦17 trillion and ₦21 trillion yearly. The final cost would depend on crude discounts and the volume covered.
Meanwhile, the APC wants Atiku to explain how his proposal differs from the subsidy system he previously criticised. Alake recalled Atiku’s 2022 comments describing petrol subsidy as fraudulent. He also cited Atiku’s August 25, 2026 post on X, where he said, “I will restore it!” The council said Atiku should publish a detailed policy document and independent legal and fiscal analysis. It also questioned whether his proposal would prevent smuggling, fraud and diversion.
The APC also defended the Tinubu administration’s focus on CNG and electric transport. It said more than 120,000 vehicles had received CNG conversions. The council claimed some states had also reduced transport fares through alternative energy programmes. It further pointed to rising local refining capacity, including the Dangote refinery.
Still, Alake acknowledged the pressure from high petrol prices. He said lower global crude prices could eventually reduce pump prices. The APC urged Atiku to clarify his subsidy plan before Nigerians assess its impact.
