Face-Off: ADC Challenges APC to Debate Atiku’s Subsidy Proposal

The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has challenged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to a public debate over the party’s proposal to restore fuel subsidies if elected in 2027.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Programme Sunrise Daily on Friday, Abdullahi said the ADC was prepared to defend its position that government could reintroduce subsidies in a targeted manner to reduce the burden of fuel costs on Nigerians.

He explained that subsidy did not necessarily have to be applied directly at the pump, arguing that countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Argentina and Saudi Arabia subsidise production to reduce costs and ultimately influence consumer prices.

According to him, the ADC’s proposal includes subsidising production while eliminating the arbitrage and leakages that previously characterised Nigeria’s fuel subsidy regime.

He also criticised the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), arguing that where existing provisions prevent government from supporting citizens during economic hardship, such laws should be reviewed.

Abdullahi said the absence of a robust social register had made targeted subsidies difficult in Nigeria, adding that a functional system could allow government to support only citizens who meet specified income criteria.

He dismissed criticisms of ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s proposal of restoring fuel subsidy, saying the party was ready to engage the APC on the economic merits of its position.

“Now we are saying we will return subsidy. Let us debate it in front of Nigerians,” Abdullahi said.

He further called for a debate involving spokespersons of the two parties, saying Nigerians should be allowed to hear both sides of the subsidy argument and determine which proposal offers a better solution to the country’s economic challenges.