The National Vice Chairman, North-West, of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Muhammadu Rabiu Bakinzuwo, has declared his support for African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar over his proposal to restore petrol subsidy if elected president in 2027.
Bakinzuwo’s position puts him at odds with the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who has maintained his support for the removal of petrol subsidy while criticising the Federal Government over the management of funds saved from the policy.
Reports indicate that Bakinzuwo’s decision was largely influenced by Atiku’s pledge to restore subsidy as part of his proposed economic programme.
The issue of petrol subsidy has become one of the major economic and political debates ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku has argued that Nigerians require relief from the high cost of petrol and its wider impact on transportation and living expenses.
The Tinubu administration, however, has continued to defend the removal of subsidy, arguing that the former system placed a significant financial burden on the government.
Bakinzuwo’s declaration is particularly notable because of his position within the NDC and his decision to publicly support a rival opposition candidate on one of the central issues likely to shape the 2027 election.
The development comes amid a broader period of political realignment, with politicians and party members increasingly taking positions based on their preferred candidates and policy proposals ahead of the election.