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The Association of Former Presidential Candidates of Nigeria (AFPCN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to restore the fuel subsidy, arguing that its removal has deepened economic hardship and pushed millions of Nigerians into worsening poverty.
Addressing a press conference on the state of the nation in Abuja on Tuesday, the association said soaring fuel prices had triggered sharp increases in the cost of food, transportation and other essential services, leaving many households struggling to survive.
AFPCN Chairman, Dr. Onwubuya Abraham Breakforth, questioned the Federal Government\'s repeated claims of rising revenue, saying ordinary Nigerians had yet to feel the benefits through improved living conditions.
He maintained that any increase in government revenue should be channelled towards policies that ease the burden on citizens rather than leaving them to grapple with escalating living costs.
The association urged the Federal Government to immediately restore the fuel subsidy and introduce measures to reduce the prices of food and other basic necessities, insisting that economic policies must translate into tangible relief for the people.
AFPCN Director-General, Dr. Moses Ayibiowu, said the persistent fluctuations in petrol prices had placed enormous pressure on families and businesses, calling on the government to bring the pump price to an affordable level.
According to him, the rising cost of petrol has had a ripple effect on the economy, increasing transportation fares and driving up food prices across the country.
The association also suggested that the government explore additional strategies to make food more affordable, including importing food items from countries where prices are lower if necessary.
Beyond economic concerns, AFPCN expressed worry over insecurity and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing reported killings during the recent Osun State governorship election.
A member of the association, Robinson Akpua, called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for election-related violence to deter future offenders.
The group further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, maintain neutrality and ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates during the 2027 polls.
AFPCN also appealed to the Federal Government and the National Assembly to provide adequate funding for INEC and ensure proper oversight of electoral resources, stressing that no Nigerian should lose their life for participating in a democratic process.
