A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Yemi Arokodare, has questioned why Nigerians had to endure prolonged economic hardship before the Federal Government began reconsidering aspects of its fuel subsidy removal policy.
Arokodare, in a statement reacting to the ongoing fuel subsidy debate, commended former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, for speaking out on the economic consequences of the policy.
The former member of the House of Representatives said the removal of subsidy had triggered rising transportation costs, escalating food prices and increased cost of living, leaving many households struggling to meet basic needs.
According to him, businesses have also grappled with higher operating costs, while the purchasing power of many Nigerians has significantly declined.
Arokodare argued that government should place citizens’ welfare at the centre of policies with far-reaching economic implications, noting that adequate palliative measures should have been put in place to cushion the effects of subsidy removal.
He maintained that any reconsideration of the policy must be accompanied by concrete measures to ease the financial burden on Nigerians, stressing that policy adjustments alone would not automatically reverse the hardship already suffered by households and businesses.
The ADC chieftain also linked the subsidy debate to political accountability ahead of the 2027 general election, urging Nigerians to critically assess the decisions and records of political leaders when exercising their franchise.
He commended Atiku Abubakar for drawing attention to the economic challenges facing the country and advocating policies that prioritise the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Arokodare called on the Federal Government to prioritise economic relief, affordable living conditions and policies that protect livelihoods, adding that Nigerians need practical solutions to their financial difficulties rather than promises.
He said the 2027 general election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to express their views on the country’s leadership and economic direction through the ballot box.
