The Nigerian Presidency has launched a strong critique against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing him of politicizing the nation’s economy through his recent calls to reinstate the petrol subsidy. This accusation follows Atiku's apparent shift from his previous position during the 2023 presidential campaign, where he advocated for the complete removal of the subsidy, labeling it as unsustainable and corrupt.

Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications to the President, described Atiku’s latest remarks as a display of political opportunism aimed at exploiting the economic struggles faced by Nigerians for electoral gain. In a statement titled "Atiku’s Subsidy U-Turn: The Bankruptcy of Desperate Ambition," Dare emphasized the hypocrisy of Atiku's sudden pivot, highlighting that just a few years ago, he had positioned himself as a proponent of market-driven reforms.

Dare pointed out that during the lead-up to the 2023 elections, Atiku had firmly argued for the elimination of the petrol subsidy, claiming it was draining the nation’s resources and benefiting a corrupt few. He stated, "To watch a self-styled statesman—who less than four years ago cast himself as an uncompromising apostle of market-driven reform—scramble to promise the reintroduction of petrol subsidies is nothing short of political apostasy."

The Presidency’s statement further criticized Atiku for what it termed a "shameless volte-face," suggesting that his recent proposals reflect a desperate attempt to regain political relevance as the next electoral cycle approaches. Dare remarked that Atiku's inconsistency is indicative of a fading ambition, asserting that his actions demonstrate a willingness to jeopardize national economic stability for fleeting headlines.

In his remarks, Dare also highlighted the importance of the reforms being implemented by the current administration, which he claims are vital for the long-term economic health of Nigeria. He noted that the removal of the subsidy is part of a broader strategy to enhance local refining capacities and ensure that the nation’s finances are not drained by corrupt practices associated with the subsidy regime.

Dare warned that entertaining Atiku’s proposal to restore the subsidy would lead to severe economic repercussions, undermining progress made in various sectors and risking a return to the corrupt practices that had previously plagued the subsidy system. He urged Nigerians to reject what he termed a "sordid narrative of regression" and to support the ongoing reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy.

The Presidency concluded by emphasizing that true leadership involves making tough decisions for the greater good, rather than succumbing to populist pressures for short-term electoral gains. It remains to be seen how Atiku's changing stance will affect his political aspirations as Nigeria moves closer to the next elections.