Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, has reiterated his position on fuel subsidy removal—but insists it must be done strategically to avoid worsening the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Obi believes the fuel subsidy regime is riddled with fraud and corruption. He argues that inflated fuel consumption figures and opaque accounting benefit a few individuals at the expense of the nation.“It’s not a subsidy; it’s theft. We need to stop it, but the right way.
Using a dentist analogy, Obi warns against the abrupt removal of subsidies. Instead of “pulling the tooth without anesthesia,” he advocates for a gradual, well-planned process that cushions citizens from the shock.
Before removing subsidies, Obi says the government must roll out support programmes like: Targeted palliatives,Investments in transportation, education, and healthcare. Job creation and poverty reduction plans.
He referenced former President Jonathan’s SURE-P programme as a model of how subsidy savings can be reinvested meaningfully.
Obi calls for clear, transparent reporting on how subsidy savings are used. He believes Nigerians will support removal—if they can see the benefits.
