By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigerian workers are facing worsening economic realities despite promises of renewed hope.
In a message posted on social media to mark International Workers’ Day, Atiku said the occasion, traditionally set aside to honour workers, is now overshadowed by hardship and frustration.
“Every first day of May nations across the world pause to honour the dignity of labour… But as we mark this year’s commemoration, I write not with celebration in my heart, but with grief… for the Nigerian worker who was promised renewed hope and received instead renewed hardship,” he wrote.
The 2023 presidential candidate reflected on the ruling party’s campaign slogan, arguing that it has failed to deliver tangible benefits. “Today… it is painfully clear that what was renewed was not hope, but hardship. What was refreshed was not the fortunes of the Nigerian people, but the pockets of those in power,” he said.
Atiku further alleged that workers across sectors including teachers, healthcare professionals, civil servants and artisans have borne the brunt of recent economic reforms, accusing the government of focusing more on revenue generation than citizens’ welfare.
Central to his criticism was the removal of fuel subsidy, a policy he acknowledged as necessary but poorly handled. “The fuel subsidy removal was a necessary step, recklessly executed,” he stated, noting that while the policy had long been advocated due to corruption and fiscal strain, its sudden implementation created severe economic shocks.
According to him, “on the day of inauguration, with no preparation, no safety nets… the President announced the end of the subsidy,” triggering sharp increases in fuel prices, transport fares and food costs. He added that “the Nigerian worker… was suddenly confronted with a cost of living that made mere survival feel like a luxury.”
The former vice-president also questioned the management of funds saved from the subsidy removal. “Trillions were ostensibly saved, but nothing gained by the people,” he said, arguing that the proceeds have not translated into improved infrastructure, healthcare, or social welfare.
He specifically referenced the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, valued at about $11 billion, alleging irregularities in its award. “Rather than being channelled into programmes that would directly benefit Nigerians, these funds have been shared.
The bulk… appears to be financing the controversial… project… This is not governance, it is the brazen conversion of public resources for private enrichment,” he wrote.
The statement comes amid persistent concerns over inflation, rising living costs and declining purchasing power since the subsidy removal and other economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration.
Analysts say the remarks reflect broader opposition sentiment and could intensify political pressure on the government, especially if economic conditions do not improve. There are also concerns that continued hardship could trigger labour unrest and weaken public confidence in ongoing reforms.
Workers’ Day 2026 has therefore become not only a moment of reflection, but also a platform for renewed debate over economic policy direction and the government’s handling of post-subsidy realities.
