Minister of Works David Umahi has questioned the ability of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to tackle corruption in Nigeria, intensifying the political debate over economic management and fuel subsidy policy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Umahi made the remarks during an interview with ARISE News journalist Ojy Okpe, while responding to Obi’s proposal that corruption associated with the fuel subsidy system should be addressed before any decision is made to restore the subsidy.
Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, has argued that corruption must be tackled to ensure public resources are properly managed. He has also maintained that a future administration could retain the subsidy while eliminating the alleged corruption associated with its implementation.
Umahi, however, expressed doubts about Obi’s capacity to deliver on that promise, questioning whether the former governor possessed what was required to confront corruption effectively.
The exchange reflects the growing policy disagreements among political leaders as preparations for the 2027 election gather momentum. Fuel subsidy policy, public expenditure, accountability and the management of government resources are expected to remain major issues in the campaign.
The debate comes against the background of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove the petrol subsidy in May 2023, a move that significantly altered the country’s fuel pricing structure and triggered widespread debate over the cost of living and the government’s economic reforms.
Supporters of subsidy removal have argued that the policy reduces pressure on public finances, while critics have called for stronger measures to cushion the impact on households and businesses.
Obi’s proposal centres on addressing corruption and improving the management of public funds, while Umahi’s criticism questions whether the opposition politician could successfully implement such an approach.
The disagreement highlights a broader question facing Nigerian voters: how competing political parties intend to tackle corruption, manage public resources and balance fiscal sustainability with the economic needs of citizens.
As the 2027 election approaches, the ability of candidates to present credible, detailed and measurable policy proposals is likely to be central to public scrutiny.