Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has backed calls for a substantial increase in Nigeria’s minimum wage. He accuses President Bola Tinubu’s administration of making everyday life increasingly expensive for workers.
According to The Guardian, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate said rising fuel, food, transport and housing costs had weakened the value of workers’ earnings.
Atiku accused the administration of presiding over what he described as a “ruthless economic squeeze in which workers are paid more on paper and condemned to live on less.”
His remarks came amid growing labour demands for higher wages and measures to reduce the cost of living.
Atiku attacks subsidy removal
Atiku criticised the manner in which the Federal Government removed the petrol subsidy. He argued that the decision drove up prices without adequate protection for households.
“The government pulled away the floor, offered workers a flimsy umbrella and now applauds itself while the rain beats down on them,” he said.
“Fuel, transport, food and rent have devoured their earnings. This is a callous way to govern people who work hard and ask only for the means to live.”
The former vice-president said Nigerians had been repeatedly asked to make sacrifices. However, they have not seen enough benefits from the government’s economic reforms.
Akume urges peace ahead of 2027
Meanwhile, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume has urged Nigerians to prioritise peace and unity. He said this as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a church service marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, Akume said elections should not deepen existing divisions.
“As we look toward the 2027 elections ahead, let us remember that democracy is sustained by peace and unity,” he said.
“Our votes must be cast not in division, but in hope.”
Akume urged Nigerians to choose dialogue over conflict while allowing the electoral process to reflect the will of the people.
