Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has taken a swipe at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent remarks in Bayelsa State, arguing that focusing on petrol prices fails to capture the true depth of economic hardship in Nigeria.
In a statement issued by his media office and signed by spokesman Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said the President’s comparison of Nigeria’s fuel prices with those of other countries presents a narrow and misleading picture of the economy.
He maintained that while petrol may appear cheaper in Nigeria, the broader reality tells a different story—one defined by declining incomes, rising inflation, and a high cost of living that continues to squeeze ordinary citizens.
According to the statement, economic well-being cannot be measured by fuel prices alone, but by how far citizens’ earnings can go in meeting basic needs.
Atiku’s camp argued that Nigerians are grappling with a severe erosion of purchasing power, noting that workers earn significantly less than their counterparts in countries often used for comparison, yet face mounting living expenses.
The statement also faulted Nigeria’s uniform minimum wage system, describing it as inadequate and insensitive to regional economic realities, especially in major urban centres where living costs are higher.
It warned that relying on selective economic comparisons risks portraying the government as disconnected from the daily struggles of citizens.
“At a time when Nigerians are burdened by rising poverty and economic uncertainty, what is required is not statistical framing but clear, people-focused solutions,” the statement said.
The former Vice President urged the administration to confront the full scale of the economic challenges facing the country and prioritise policies that deliver real relief.
He concluded that Nigerians are not interested in comparative narratives but in tangible improvements to their living conditions.
Atiku tackles Tinubu, says Nigerians face deeper economic pain
