APC’s Morka to Atiku: “Tell Nigerians Your Plan,” Not Just Criticism

The political contest ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is already spilling into a debate over competing economic prescriptions.

APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka has challenged ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar to present what he considers a clear alternative to the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Morka made the argument during a television programme after Atiku called on Tinubu to reduce petrol prices and ease the cost-of-living pressure on Nigerians.

Atiku said Nigerians were facing the combined burden of high energy, transport and food costs and urged the government to take measures capable of reducing that pressure.

ADVERTISEMENT

Morka, however, questioned what he described as the absence of a detailed alternative programme from the former vice president.

He also criticised Atiku over his position on petrol subsidy removal, arguing that Atiku had supported the policy during the 2023 campaign before criticising its consequences after implementation.

Atiku, for his part, has argued that the government should adopt any measure that can reduce the cost of living regardless of where the idea originates.

He also warned against the planned phase-out of electricity subsidies from 2027, saying households, small businesses and manufacturers were already dealing with high electricity, diesel and alternative energy costs.

The exchange illustrates the economic argument likely to feature prominently in the 2027 campaign: whether the government’s current reforms should continue, be modified or be replaced by different policies.

For voters, the relevant question will ultimately be what each political camp proposes on fuel prices, electricity, food costs, taxation, jobs and household incomes.