Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant, Garba Shehu, has responded to critics who claimed that Buhari failed to remove fuel subsidy during his tenure. Shehu defended the former President, stating that if Buhari had implemented the Petroleum Industry Act, which included the removal of petrol subsidy, it could have resulted in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) losing the 2023 general elections.
Shehu acknowledged the steps taken by the current administration to remove petrol subsidy and unify the Naira exchange rate, commending their efforts. He emphasized that while Buhari did not remove the petrol subsidy, his administration eliminated other subsidies, such as electricity, fertilizer, Hajj/Christian Pilgrim, diesel, aviation fuel, LPFO, kerosene, and cooking gas. Shehu reminded the public that these subsidies were already in place when Buhari assumed office in 2015 but were gradually phased out during his tenure.
Shehu explained that Buhari’s decision not to remove petrol subsidy and unify the currency was strategic. He believed that it was more appropriate for the ruling APC party to address these questions rather than the former President. He also expressed support for the new Tinubu/Shettima administration, praising their timing and handling of the subsidy removal decisions to avoid any crises.
Shehu emphasized that removing subsidies was not solely the President’s decision and highlighted the long-standing plans to address these issues, including provisions in the Petroleum Industry Act. He stated that the decision had to be made at the right time, considering the prevailing tensions in the country.
Shehu acknowledged the political realities faced by the Buhari administration, noting that the APC had an upcoming election and polls indicated that implementing the envisaged changes would have led to their defeat. However, with the election now over and a capable leader in place, Shehu expressed confidence in the new administration’s ability to guide the nation through the aftermath of these significant economic decisions.
In conclusion, Shehu stated, “There are times when you have to lose in order to win,” emphasizing the belief that the new administration would lead the country into a stable future.
