The Association of Former Presidential Candidates of Nigeria (AFPCN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to review the removal of fuel subsidy, saying the policy has added pressure to the cost of living.
The association made the demand on Tuesday at a press conference on the state of the nation in Abuja.
It also questioned whether increased government revenue was translating into meaningful relief for Nigerians.
AFPCN Chairman, Dr Onwubuya Abraham Breakforth, said government revenue should be used to address the economic pressures facing citizens.
He urged the Federal Government to introduce measures to reduce the cost of food, transportation and other essential services.
The association specifically called for the restoration of fuel subsidy, arguing that petrol prices have increased transportation costs and contributed to higher food prices.
The Director-General of AFPCN, Dr Moses Ayibiowu, said government could not continue to report higher revenue while many Nigerians struggled with rising expenses.
He said fluctuations in petrol prices had placed additional pressure on households and businesses.
“We are advocating that the Federal Government must reverse the fuel pump price. Nigerians are suffering because fuel affects food, market women and everything,” Ayibiowu said.
The association also urged the government to consider measures to make food more affordable, including imports where necessary.
AFPCN said revenue generation should ultimately be reflected in improved welfare and better access to essential services.
The former presidential candidates also raised concerns over insecurity and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They referred to reported killings during the recent Osun governorship election and called for investigations and prosecution of those responsible.
Robinson Akpua, a member of the association, urged the police, Department of State Services and other security agencies to act against perpetrators of electoral violence.
He warned that failure to prosecute offenders could encourage further violence during the 2027 elections.
AFPCN also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to work closely with security agencies to prevent violence and ensure peaceful elections.
The association called on political parties and candidates to promote issue-based campaigns and restrain their supporters from acts capable of triggering violence.
AFPCN further urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding for INEC ahead of the 2027 elections.
It asked the National Assembly to scrutinise the commission’s finances and ensure that funds for voter education and electoral preparations are properly utilised.
The association also called on INEC to maintain neutrality and provide a level playing field for all parties and candidates.
AFPCN said it was neither anti-government nor pro-government, describing itself as a pro-masses platform committed to good governance, peace, national unity and development.
It stressed that Nigerians must not have to pay with their lives for participating in elections.
