Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has voiced strong opposition to Atiku Abubakar's recent pledge to reinstate fuel subsidies if elected president in 2027. During a press conference in Abuja, Sani described the proposal as a deceptive move that could further destabilize Nigeria's economy rather than alleviate the hardships faced by citizens.

Sani emphasized that Nigeria has already incurred significant financial burdens due to fuel subsidies, estimating that the country spent between N3 trillion and N4 trillion on the policy in previous years. He argued that the funds primarily benefited corrupt individuals who misappropriated public resources under the guise of subsidizing petroleum imports.

The former senator pointed out that the existing subsidy system has inadvertently facilitated the smuggling of cheaper Nigerian fuel into neighboring countries, where prices are higher. This situation has led to Nigerians bearing the brunt of the costs without reaping the full benefits of the subsidy. "I don't think any candidate that is worthy of leadership should pull us back to that era," Sani stated.

Sani further questioned the rationale behind a country that exports crude oil yet relies on imports for refined petroleum products, spending its foreign currency to subsidize these imports for local consumption. He criticized the notion that reinstating subsidies would effectively lower commodity prices, asserting that it would instead distort the country's economic stability.

In lieu of restoring subsidies, Sani advocated for increased investment in domestic refining capabilities. He cited the Dangote Refinery as a successful example of local refining potential and urged the government to prioritize fixing Nigeria's public refineries to eliminate the need for imported finished petroleum products.

Sani also called for the Federal Government to implement economic reforms that consider the welfare of ordinary citizens. He urged political leaders to reduce the cost of governance and make sacrifices before expecting the public to shoulder the burdens of reform.

As the 2027 general elections approach, Sani expressed his support for a southern presidential candidate, framing this stance as essential for political balance and national stability. He also endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid while encouraging opposition parties to nominate southern candidates.

"The country doesn't have to fall because you lose elections. The country doesn't have to scatter into pieces because you lose elections," Sani remarked, emphasizing the need for political maturity among Nigerian leaders.

In a related development, Atiku Abubakar has publicly disowned comments made by his media aide regarding fuel subsidies, reiterating that his position on the matter remains unchanged. He attributed the rising fuel prices under Tinubu's administration to increased transport and food costs for Nigerian families, reinforcing his commitment to restoring the subsidy if elected.