The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has promised to restore fuel subsidy if elected president in 2027, saying his administration would first tackle corruption in the system.
Obi made the pledge on Monday at a town hall meeting held in Sokoto for the Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket as the party continues its consultations and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.
The former Anambra State governor identified corruption as one of the major problems affecting Nigeria and said an NDC government under his leadership would seek to address corrupt practices across different sectors.
He said his position on subsidy was linked to the need to first remove corruption from the system. According to him, a cleaner subsidy system could then be restored to provide relief for Nigerians.
Obi called on Nigerians to support NDC candidates at different levels during the 2027 elections, describing the task of fixing the country’s problems as one that requires collective effort.
He also said the party would pursue a style of politics centred on serving the interests of Nigerians and responding to their needs.
Speaking on the economy, Obi said his proposed government would direct the country’s resources towards key areas such as security, education and other sectors if he wins the election.
He listed education as one of his major priorities, alongside national unity and security. He also promised to link state capitals across the country by rail to improve the movement of people and goods and support economic activities.
Also speaking at the meeting, NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso said the delegation was in Sokoto to interact with residents and seek their support ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, said the delegation had earlier visited the Sultan of Sokoto and received his prayers and goodwill for the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.
He also raised concerns about insecurity in different parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North-West, where communities have continued to face problems linked to banditry and kidnapping.
Kwankwaso said the NDC would seek to address the security situation and other challenges affecting the country if given the opportunity to govern.
Earlier, the party’s governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Dr Shamsudeen Haido, promised to provide good governance if elected in 2027.
The NDC state chairman, Bello Yabo, said the town hall gave residents an opportunity to hear directly from Obi and Kwankwaso about their plans for the country ahead of the election.