“You Are Like A Dull Student Who Copied His Classmate’s Answer” – Atiku Abubakar Teases Bola Tinubu

Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, has questioned the effectiveness of President Bola Tinubu’s temporary petrol price reduction, insisting that the measure would do little to address Nigeria’s persistent cost-of-living crisis.

Speaking in a video shared by Symfoni TV on Friday, October 9, 2026, Atiku contrasted the government’s 30-day petrol discount with his proposed production subsidy, which he said was intended to provide more lasting economic relief.

“You are like a dull student who copied his classmate’s answer,” the former vice president remarked, accusing the administration of adopting his idea without fully implementing it.

Atiku said his proposal was intended to support petroleum products refined locally and sold in the Nigerian market. According to him, the approach would help reduce fuel prices, encourage domestic refining and provide more sustainable benefits to consumers.

He questioned the government’s decision to introduce a temporary discount rather than adopt a broader policy with long-term benefits. He also asked how Nigerians would cope once the discount ended, particularly households, commercial drivers and businesses that depend heavily on fuel.

The ADC candidate stressed that an effective production subsidy would require adequate budgetary provisions, independent auditing and transparent administration to ensure that the intended beneficiaries received the support.

Atiku further criticised the administration for previously rejecting his economic proposal before introducing what he described as a limited version of the same approach.

He maintained that Nigeria needed long-term solutions to rising fuel costs and economic hardship, arguing that policies promoting local production and improving living standards would be more effective than temporary discounts.

Click on the link to watch the video from 4:41 – 4:52

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