Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and former governor of Kano State, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s petrol subsidy removal policy, describing its impact on Nigeria’s economy as a “total mess.”
Kwankwaso made the remarks during an interview with ARISE News correspondent Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, where he discussed fuel subsidy, economic conditions and the policy direction associated with the opposition’s 2027 presidential campaign.
According to the supplied account, Kwankwaso said an NDC administration would seek to restore fuel subsidy through an approach different from the current government’s policy.
Debate Over Petrol Subsidy Removal
The removal of petrol subsidy has remained a major issue in Nigeria’s economic and political debate.
The Tinubu administration’s policy has been associated with significant changes in petrol pricing and the government’s approach to fuel-market intervention. Critics have raised concerns about the cost of living and the effects of higher transport and energy costs on households and businesses.
Supporters of the reforms, including government officials, have argued that subsidy removal addresses the financial burden associated with subsidising petrol and creates room for alternative public spending.
The two perspectives reflect a continuing disagreement over the policy’s economic costs, benefits and implementation.
Kwankwaso’s Alternative Policy Position
Kwankwaso’s comments present his position on how a future administration under the NDC would approach fuel pricing and economic management.
However, the precise mechanism through which the proposed subsidy restoration would be funded, administered and sustained should be established from the full interview and any formal policy documents released by the party.
The sustainability of any subsidy policy depends on its fiscal cost, the effect on public finances and the arrangements for preventing leakages or misuse of public funds.
The 2027 Political Debate
The fuel subsidy question is expected to remain part of the wider political discussion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kwankwaso’s criticism adds to the opposition’s broader debate over the government’s economic reforms and the policy alternatives that political parties may present to voters.