The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has changed his position on petroleum subsidy ahead of the 2027 election.
Speaking at an Obi/Kwankwaso town hall meeting in Sokoto on Monday, Obi said he would restore subsidy after his administration had successfully tackled corruption.
Obi had earlier said he would not bring back subsidy but would use savings from its removal to meet Nigerians’ needs. His new position differs from that of ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, who has repeatedly promised to restore petrol subsidy if elected in 2027.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ended petrol subsidy after his inauguration on May 29, 2023, and recently said his government would not restore it despite rising fuel prices.
Obi said corruption was Nigeria’s major problem and promised to fight it across all sectors.
“People are talking about subsidy but what is all about it is corruption. By removing the corruption, I assure you that we will bring back subsidy.
“The problem of Nigeria is corruption, as such, if elected, we will stop all forms of corruption in every sector of the country,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to vote for NDC candidates, promising a “politics of care and service to Nigerians.” He also listed security and education as priorities and promised railway links between all state capitals.
Kwankwaso said the team visited Sokoto to seek support. He noted the North-West’s banditry and kidnapping problems.
“We are, therefore, committed to mitigating all these challenges and make Nigeria better,” he said.
Sokoto governorship candidate Shamsudeen Haido pledged good governance, while party chairman Bello Yabo said the meeting allowed residents to hear Obi and Kwankwaso’s plans.
