By Stephen Simon
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to restore petroleum subsidy if elected in the 2027 general elections, saying his administration would first tackle corruption in the oil sector.
Obi made the pledge on Monday at a town hall meeting organised for the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket in Sokoto, shortly after the delegation visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III. The Sultan received Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and, according to Kwankwaso, prayed for the success of their ticket. Reports from the Sultan’s media team, however, described his role as that of a father figure to politicians seeking elective office in 2027.
Obi identified corruption as a major challenge confronting the country, arguing that the subsidy debate could not be separated from transparency and accountability in the petroleum sector. “People are talking about subsidy, but what it is all about is corruption. By removing the corruption, I assure you that we will bring back subsidy,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor also promised to deploy Nigeria’s resources towards security, education and other critical sectors if elected, declaring education a major priority after unity and security. He further pledged to expand rail transportation, including connecting state capitals, to facilitate economic activities and development.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, said the Sokoto engagement was aimed at meeting residents and seeking their support ahead of the 2027 elections. He expressed concern over insecurity in the North-West, particularly banditry and kidnapping, and pledged that an NDC administration would work to address the challenges.
The NDC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Dr Shamsudeen Haido, also pledged to provide good governance if elected, while the party’s state chairman, Bello Yabo, said the town hall provided an opportunity for residents and party supporters to hear directly from the presidential ticket about its plans for the country.
