By Kingston Magare 18.9.2026
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar said
Nigerians have themselves to blame if they make the mistake of voting for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Atiku said Friday at a press conference in Abuja that Tinubu’s plan to remove electricity subsidy will usher in more hardships.
“Nigerians are now being told that electricity subsidy will be phased out in 2027.
“Blame yourself if you elect him again. Electricity is already expensive. Small businesses are struggling to keep the light on,” Atiku said.
“The barber needs electricity for his clippers. The tailor needs it for her machines. The frozen-food seller needs it to preserve her stock. The welder needs it for his equipment. The manufacturer needs it to keep the factory alive.”
He stated that the well-being of Nigerians should be paramount in policy formulations.
“I ask for only one thing: Let Nigerians breathe. The lesson of petrol must not be repeated with electricity. Do not remove first and think later. Do not impose the pain first and search for palliatives afterwards.”
Politics aside said he was open to helping Tinubu solve the country’s economic problems.
“If you need the framework, I will provide it. Implement it under your government. Give it whatever name you choose. Take the credit. I am prepared to compete with you politically. But I will never compete with the welfare of the Nigerian people,” Mr Abubakar said. “The presidency may be contested. The well-being of Nigerians should never be.”