The Association of Former Presidential Candidates has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the Federal Government’s fuel subsidy policy and restore subsidies on petroleum products to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
The association said rising and unstable petrol prices have worsened the cost of living, increased transportation and business expenses, and contributed to higher prices of food and other essential commodities.
Chairman of the association, Dr Breakforth Onwubuya, said the Federal Government should intervene in the downstream petroleum sector to stabilise pump prices and protect consumers from arbitrary increases.
“We are already advocating that the Federal Government must reverse the fuel pump price,” Onwubuya said.
“You can buy fuel today for N1,200, tomorrow N1,300, and next month it could be higher. Independent marketers are setting prices as they like.
“The Federal Government must review the situation and set a fixed price on fuel. High fuel costs are affecting food prices, market women and virtually every aspect of the economy.”
The association’s Director-General, Dr Moses Ayibowu, also supported the call, arguing that at least a partial restoration of the subsidy would help make petroleum products more affordable.
“The Federal Government should return the subsidy. That is the only way Nigerians can survive. You cannot say you are making more money while citizens are suffering,” Ayibowu said.
He urged the government to deploy more public revenue towards measures that would reduce the financial pressure on households.
“The government has generated over N20 trillion in the last year. Use that revenue to alleviate the suffering of the citizens,” he added.
The association described the proposed restoration of the fuel subsidy as an emergency intervention that could help prevent a further decline in Nigerians’ living standards.
Group Raises Security Concerns Ahead of 2027 Elections
Beyond the economy, the former presidential candidates also expressed concern over security ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that unresolved security challenges could threaten peaceful polls.
An executive member of the association, Robinson Akpua, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen measures against electoral violence. He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deepen collaboration with security agencies.
“Internal security must be properly addressed. If it is not, the 2027 election will be bloody,” Akpua warned.
He stressed the need for INEC and security agencies to work together to prevent violence before, during and after the elections.
The association said it was established to provide constructive scrutiny of governance, promote peace and national unity, and advocate policies that advance the interests of Nigerians irrespective of political affiliation.
“We are not anti-government, and we are not pro-government. We are pro-masses,” the group said.
“Whatever we say is in the interest of Nigerians. We want better leadership, a better society and a government that listens to the people.”
According to the association, its membership comprises former presidential candidates from different political parties who have contested Nigeria’s highest political office since 1999.
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