Atiku Blames Tinubu’s Subsidy Removal for Worsening Hunger, Economic Hardship
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has launched a scathing critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies, particularly the controversial removal of fuel subsidies, which he says has plunged millions of Nigerians into hunger, despair, and economic ruin.
In a statement released through his verified social media handle, Atiku condemned what he called a “chaotic and insensitive approach” to economic reform under the Tinubu administration.
He argued that while the government promised a “Renewed Hope Agenda,” it has instead delivered hardship and broken public trust.
“There is hunger in the land. The reforms are causing pain instead of progress. Nigerians are becoming hopeless,” Atiku stated.
According to Atiku, the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira were executed without adequate planning or protective measures for the poor and working class. He claimed these moves have led to inflationary shocks, crippled purchasing power, and driven up food and transport costs across the country.
He cited the rising prices of basic commodities, such as bread and rice, and highlighted the collapse of small businesses and the exit of multinational companies as indicators of a struggling economy.
“This administration is focused on taxing the poor and pleasing the privileged. Their budget favours a bloated federal government while ignoring the real struggles of citizens,” he added.
Atiku’s claims are echoed by alarming findings from international organizations and local experts. A joint report by the Nigerian government and the United Nations projects that over 33 million Nigerians could face acute food insecurity due to the combined effects of inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and insecurity. Another independent study estimated that at least 31.8 million people are already battling food shortages, primarily in rural areas.
These figures come amid widespread complaints over soaring transportation fares, reduced access to healthcare, and a decline in educational affordability.
The Tinubu administration has argued that its reforms are necessary to stabilize the economy, reduce fiscal burdens, and attract foreign investment. However, critics like Atiku insist that the approach lacks structure, transparency, and empathy.
“What we are witnessing is not reform but reckless experimentation. A responsible government does not remove subsidy overnight without cushioning mechanisms,” Atiku declared.
He further described the 2024 national budget as “uninspiring and wasteful,” accusing the government of focusing on luxury and official excesses while ignoring grassroots empowerment and food security.
Atiku concluded his statement by urging President Tinubu to review and reconsider his economic strategies, stressing that the current path is “unsustainable and dangerous.” He warned that if immediate changes are not made, the country risks sliding deeper into poverty and social unrest.
“The poor are starving, the middle class is shrinking, and businesses are failing. This government must listen before it’s too late.”
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic uncertainty, Atiku’s remarks have rekindled a national debate on the effectiveness and human cost of subsidy removal and market liberalization. While the federal government has yet to officially respond to his accusations, public frustration continues to mount, with protests and labour union actions looming across several states.
