Speaking at a mobilization event in Abeokuta to support President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign, Showunmi emphasized that the nation cannot afford to revert to policies that have historically failed. His comments come as discussions about petrol subsidy intensify ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has argued for a return to petrol subsidies, claiming they are essential for alleviating the rising cost of living for Nigerians. However, Showunmi countered this perspective, stating that subsidy regimes had been in place since 1973 without yielding the desired results.
“We’ve seen the consequences of these subsidies for decades. If they had worked, wouldn’t we have seen improvements by now?” Showunmi questioned, highlighting the chronic inefficiencies in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
He criticized past administrations for failing to address the core issues of refining and production, suggesting that the country must look forward rather than backward. “Some ambitious individuals want to drag us back to a time we’ve already left,” he declared.
Atiku's team later clarified that his proposal does not involve a full return to the previous subsidy system but aims for a targeted and transparent intervention to support domestic refining and reduce energy costs.
Showunmi, a staunch supporter of Tinubu's economic reforms, argued that the removal of petrol subsidies has created more funding opportunities for local governments. “Now there’s money available across all tiers of government,” he noted, advocating for the continuity of Tinubu’s policies.
He also emphasized the importance of stable leadership for effective governance. “Frequent changes disrupt the implementation of long-term economic strategies,” he argued.
In rallying support for Tinubu, Showunmi appealed particularly to the Yoruba community, stating, “This election is Bola Tinubu’s to win.” He urged South-West voters to mobilize and not to underestimate their influence.
Showunmi warned against complacency, reminding attendees that electoral outcomes depend on active participation from all regions. “It’s time to work now; we cannot afford to sit back,” he urged.
His remarks encapsulate a broader strategy to galvanize support for Tinubu as the 2027 elections approach, reinforcing the message that Nigeria is ready to move forward, leaving past mistakes behind.
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