President Bola Tinubu has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s proposal to reinstate petrol subsidy, describing the position as evidence of “serious ignorance on governance and economy”.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday at the State House in Abuja while receiving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who visited the President following his victory in the August 15 governorship election.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had on Wednesday said he would restore petrol subsidy if elected president in 2027.
The former vice-president also questioned the management of the funds saved from the removal of subsidy, accusing the Tinubu administration of failing to account for the savings since the policy was introduced on May 29, 2023.
Responding to the proposal, Tinubu recalled the financial difficulties faced by several states before he assumed office, arguing that the resources freed from subsidy should instead be invested in critical sectors of the economy.
“Let’s look at the trajectory of the history. I saw one of my opponents, now say he will go back to subsidy. I read it. That is demonstration of a serious ignorance on governance and economy,” he said
“Before I came here, 27 states were unable to pay salaries, not to even talk of pensioners, salary of workers.”
READ ALSO: Presidency, Wike Blast Atiku Over Pledge To Restore Petrol Subsidy
The President said government resources should be directed towards improving infrastructure and public services, including roads, housing, education and healthcare.
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Tinubu also urged Adeleke to use his victory at the polls to foster peace and reconciliation across Osun State.
The President cautioned the governor against viewing the election outcome as a defeat of his political opponents, stressing that victory at the polls represents a responsibility entrusted to him by the electorate.
“You did not conquer anybody. You won the election. That is the essence of democracy,” Tinubu said.
“All for the reconciliation, expand your coast. That is the only way you can give thanks to our people. Not the way you sang it or celebrated it. It’s the way you act it.”