Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has promised to restore petroleum subsidy if elected in 2027, but said his administration would first tackle corruption in the system.
Obi made the declaration on Monday at a town hall meeting organised for the Obi/Kwankwaso presidential ticket in Sokoto, where he identified corruption as a major problem confronting Nigeria.
“People are talking about subsidy but what is all about it is corruption. By removing the corruption, I assure you that we will bring back subsidy,” Obi said.
“The problem of Nigeria is corruption, as such, if elected, we will stop all forms of corruption in every sector of the country,” he added.
The former Anambra State governor also urged Nigerians to vote for NDC candidates at all levels in the 2027 elections, describing the task of addressing the country’s challenges as a collective responsibility.
Obi said an NDC administration would prioritise the economy, security and education, stressing that national resources would be deployed to improve key sectors. “Education is our number one priority after unity and security,” he said.
He also pledged to connect all state capitals by railway to facilitate economic activities and promote development across the country.
The latest pledge represents a shift from Obi’s earlier position on petroleum subsidy. Recent reports recalled that he had previously opposed simply returning to the old subsidy arrangement, arguing instead for better management of resources and measures to address Nigerians’ economic difficulties.
Speaking at the same event, NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso said the delegation was in Sokoto to engage residents and seek their support ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, said the delegation had earlier visited the Sultan of Sokoto, who, according to him, prayed for the success of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and conveyed his goodwill.
He also highlighted insecurity in parts of the country, particularly banditry and kidnapping in the North-West.
“We are, therefore, committed to mitigating all these challenges and make Nigeria better,” Kwankwaso said.
