The Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, has accused the Federal Government of Nigeria of secretly reintroducing fuel subsidy.
Shaibu's accusation comes amid reports suggesting that monthly subsidy payments have reached nearly N1 trillion, exceeding the amount paid during the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a statement, Shaibu criticized the government for allegedly resuming petrol subsidy payments, as highlighted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Additionally, the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has expressed concern over the strike declared by the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD).
MEMAN clarified that its members are not in conflict with transport unions but are in discussions with transporters to establish fair rates, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act and FCCPC Act.
MEMAN emphasized that pump price deregulation encourages healthy competition and cost-reduction measures for better customer value. The association called for collaboration among all stakeholders to optimize the supply chain for affordability in the current challenging environment.