RismadarVoice Reporters
September 24, 2026
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has backed a proposed alternative form of fuel subsidy aimed at reducing petrol prices, while maintaining that it does not intend to restore the previous subsidy system if elected in 2027.
The clarification follows comments by the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, that a Peter Obi-led administration would bring back subsidy “in our own way.”
Kwankwaso said the proposed approach could include government investment in refineries and increased domestic production to make petrol available at what he described as a reasonable price.
Obi’s spokesman, Idris Zekeri, said the proposal was consistent with Obi’s longstanding support for ending the previous subsidy regime, which Obi has criticised over alleged corruption and leakages.
According to Zekeri, the NDC instead intends to work with private refineries and reform the upstream, midstream and downstream petroleum sectors in an effort to reduce fuel prices.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the NDC supported the policy position agreed upon by its presidential ticket and would pursue measures aimed at reducing living costs.
Obi has previously said he supports the removal of the former fuel subsidy but maintains that it should have been carried out gradually and in an organised manner.
