NDC accuses Tinubu of bringing back petrol subsidy through backdoor

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of attempting to reintroduce petrol subsidy “through the backdoor” through the Federal Government’s 30-day discount on petrol sold at NNPC stations.

The party made the allegation in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, following the government’s announcement of the temporary discount, which gives priority to public transporters.

The NDC described the measure as “tokenism and deceit,” arguing that it was an attempt to address the consequences of subsidy removal without tackling the hardship it said Nigerians had suffered.

The party also questioned how effective the arrangement would be, asking how many NNPC retail outlets would be able to serve Nigerians across the country.

“The attempt to reintroduce petrol subsidy through the backdoor is not only mischievous but a sign of a government in free fall, ready to clutch at anything to survive,” the NDC said.

The party further claimed that the subsidy removal had contributed to job losses and business closures, while criticising the government over the wider economic situation.

It also warned that concentrating discounted petrol at designated NNPC stations could lead to congestion and create risks for consumers.

The NDC described the Tinubu administration as incapable of rescuing the economy and called on Nigerians to vote for Peter Obi and other NDC candidates in the 2027 election.