By John Umeh
In response to growing speculation and online rumors, former presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu has firmly denied claims that ex-President Muhammadu Buhari removed fuel subsidy in a bid to sabotage or pitch Nigerians against his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The statement, which comes amidst ongoing public discourse over the economic fallout of subsidy removal, aims to dispel what Shehu calls “conspiracy-driven and politically motivated falsehoods.”
In a detailed statement released to the media, Garba Shehu described the allegation as “ridiculous and a gross misrepresentation of facts,” insisting that President Buhari acted in the best interest of the country and not out of political spite or future rivalry. He emphasized that the decision to eliminate the long-standing fuel subsidy regime was one rooted in economic necessity, not political calculation.
“At no time did President Buhari make any policy decision, including the removal of fuel subsidy, to undermine or create hardship for President Tinubu or his incoming administration,” Shehu said. “Those who suggest otherwise are either being mischievous or lack a proper understanding of the policy’s background and objectives.”
Shehu further explained that Buhari had already outlined the intention to phase out fuel subsidies before leaving office, as part of economic reform measures backed by international partners, economic advisers, and fiscal analysts. He noted that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021, had already set the legal framework in motion for subsidy discontinuation and deregulation of the downstream oil sector.
“A Transparent Handover, Not a Political Trap”
Garba Shehu reiterated that the Buhari administration ensured a transparent and cooperative transition process, where policy continuity was discussed, including the implications of subsidy removal. He claimed the Tinubu transition team was fully briefed and aware of the economic realities and options available. “There was no ambush. Everything was in the open. The Buhari government made it clear that subsidy was unsustainable. President Tinubu acted on that clarity.”
Since assuming office, President Tinubu has faced mounting economic pressure following his decision to announce the end of fuel subsidies on May 29, 2023, during his inaugural speech. The move led to an immediate surge in fuel prices nationwide, triggering inflation, hardship, and public outcry. Critics have since pointed fingers at the previous administration for setting the stage, claiming Buhari left a “poisoned chalice” for his successor.
However, Shehu insists that blaming Buhari is both inaccurate and unproductive. “If anything, the subsidy regime was a ticking time bomb that had to be defused. No responsible government could sustain such a drain on national resources indefinitely.”
Public Reactions and Ongoing Political Tensions
While Garba Shehu’s clarification has been welcomed by some APC loyalists and economic experts who agree with the rationale for subsidy removal, critics remain skeptical. Some opposition voices accuse Buhari of leaving behind an economic mess while shielding himself from the consequences. Others suggest that the manner in which the policy was structured could have been more consultative and gradual.
Nonetheless, Shehu’s intervention aims to shift the focus away from finger-pointing and toward policy substance. As Nigerians continue to grapple with the effects of subsidy removal and await tangible economic relief, the political blame game remains a central feature of the national conversation.
For now, Garba Shehu’s message is clear: Buhari did not sabotage Tinubu. Instead, he took an economically painful but necessary decision, one that he believed future leadership—regardless of party affiliation—would need to confront head-on. Whether that message resonates with the wider public, however, remains to be seen.
