Aminu Tambuwal criticises Nigeria’s fuel subsidy removal and electoral failures, warning of worsening economic hardship and democratic decline

Former Governor of Sokoto State and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Tambuwal, has attributed Nigeria’s escalating economic hardship and weakening democracy to flawed government policies, particularly the abrupt removal of fuel subsidy under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

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Speaking on ‘Arise Prime Time,’ Tambuwal criticised the policy, describing it as ill-planned and implemented without consultation or social safeguards.

“The subsidy was removed without any alternative, without any framework, without thinking it through and without consulting Nigerians on how best to go about it,” he said.

Beyond economic policy, Tambuwal highlighted systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s electoral process, noting that manipulation at polling, local, state, and national levels has eroded public trust.

He identified issues including delayed voting, technology failures, compromised officials, and poor result transmission as major threats to electoral credibility.

Despite acknowledging potential political risks, Tambuwal expressed support for reforms such as nationwide electronic transmission of election results.

“I wholeheartedly support any reform that will improve the electoral process, including electronic transmission, even if it means I will lose an election,” he stated.

Addressing criticisms of frequent political defections, Tambuwal said his own moves were guided by principle and fairness rather than personal gain.

He also downplayed the relevance of party ideology in Nigeria, describing most parties as vehicles for gaining power rather than platforms for consistent political beliefs.

On the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition ahead of the 2027 elections, Tambuwal emphasised transparent primaries and insisted that any candidate emerging through a credible process would have the coalition’s full support.

He ruled out personal presidential ambitions, stating: “My focus is not about myself. It is about galvanising and bringing out the best for Nigeria.”

Responding to reports of foreign military strikes in parts of Sokoto State, Tambuwal called the actions “disturbing and worrisome,” questioning their justification given the state’s security profile.

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He concluded by warning that Nigeria risks further citizen alienation and democratic erosion without serious reforms, inclusive governance, and carefully considered economic policies.