A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Yemi Arokodare, has criticised the Federal Government over its alleged failure to provide timely relief for Nigerians struggling with the economic hardship triggered by fuel subsidy removal.
Arokodare, a former member of the House of Representatives, said the reconsideration of aspects of the policy raised concerns about why adequate cushioning measures were not introduced before citizens endured prolonged financial difficulties.
In a statement on the subsidy debate, he commended former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, for highlighting the policy’s economic consequences and calling for a review of its impact on Nigerians.
He said the removal of fuel subsidy had contributed to rising transportation costs, higher food prices and increased living expenses, leaving many households struggling to meet basic needs.
According to him, businesses have equally suffered from rising operating costs, while the purchasing power of Nigerians continues to weaken.
The ADC chieftain argued that major economic policies should be accompanied by effective social protection programmes to minimise their impact on low-income earners and vulnerable citizens.
He urged the Federal Government to ensure that any review of the subsidy policy produces practical interventions that would ease the financial burden on households and businesses, rather than remaining at the level of announcements.
Arokodare also urged Nigerians to assess the policies and performance records of political leaders ahead of the 2027 general election, saying the poll would offer citizens an opportunity to express their views on the country’s leadership and economic direction.
He called on the government to prioritise economic relief, affordable living conditions and policies that protect livelihoods, stressing that Nigerians needed concrete solutions to the mounting cost-of-living crisis.