Alternative Movement defends Tinubu’s fuel subsidy removal

The Alternative Movement has defended President Bola Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidy, describing the decision as necessary to prevent Nigeria’s economy from collapsing.

The group’s convener, Mr Segun Showunmi, said the subsidy regime had become unsustainable after decades of public spending without achieving its intended objectives.

He spoke on Tuesday in Katsina while launching a mobilisation campaign for Tinubu and Gov. Dikko Radda’s re-election in 2027.

Showunmi said the subsidy system, introduced in the 1970s, had drained public resources while encouraging petroleum products’ diversion to neighbouring countries.

He said Nigerians continued to experience fuel scarcity in spite of huge government spending, while the country struggled to meet its financial obligations.

According to him, Nigeria was already facing serious financial difficulties when Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.

He argued that the government could no longer sustain subsidy payments, making its removal necessary.

Showunmi acknowledged that the reforms had imposed hardship on Nigerians but described them as necessary to address longstanding economic challenges.

He said the reforms would help establish a sustainable financial system and cited Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as alternative energy initiatives.

He also mentioned vehicle conversion programmes aimed at reducing dependence on petrol and urged Nigerians to exercise patience.

On security, Showunmi commended Tinubu for restructuring the Armed Forces and supporting moves to establish State Police.

He said the proposed arrangement would strengthen intelligence gathering and security operations at the grassroots.

He also praised the establishment of the North-West Development Commission, describing it as an opportunity to attract investment.

According to him, the commission could support agricultural development and harness the region’s solid mineral resources.

Showunmi urged North-West residents and other Nigerians to support Tinubu’s re-election, saying continuity would allow ongoing reforms to be consolidated.

He said the North had a responsibility to reciprocate the political trust demonstrated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to him, Buhari supported Tinubu’s emergence as president in 2023 in spite of political pressure from some quarters.

Showunmi said Buhari’s decision demonstrated loyalty, honour and commitment to national stability.

He added that Tinubu had reciprocated the relationship by giving Buhari a dignified burial.

The convener said the political understanding between the two leaders should be sustained.

Showunmi also commended Radda for what he described as inclusive governance and equitable distribution of development projects across Katsina’s 34 local government areas.

He said his assessment showed that every local government had benefited from numerous projects, particularly in infrastructure and human capital development.

He specifically praised the governor’s investments in education, healthcare, road construction and street lighting.

Showunmi described Radda as a silent achiever whose accomplishments deserved wider publicity.

He urged journalists to give adequate attention to development initiatives in Katsina, saying publicity would inform the public and encourage other states.

He also called on residents and other Nigerians to promote national unity and avoid ethnic or regional sentiments ahead of the 2027 elections.

Showunmi said the Alternative Movement was established to promote responsible political participation, national unity and constructive democratic governance.