2027: PETER OBI HAS NOTHING TO OFFER NIGERIANS — SHETTIMA

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has criticised Peter Obi, saying the former Anambra State governor has little to offer Nigerians beyond quoting statistics.

Speaking at an event in Abuja on Monday, Shettima urged members of Nigeria’s economic community to support the Federal Government’s policies, particularly its position on petrol subsidy removal.

He acknowledged Obi’s opposition to restoring the subsidy but questioned his broader proposals for the country.

“I respect Peter Obi for having the courage to say he’s not going to restore the petrol subsidy, but beyond spouting some statistics, Mr Peter Obi has absolutely nothing to offer,” Shettima said.

Defending the government’s approach, the Vice-President compared petrol prices in Nigeria with those in neighbouring countries.

He quoted prices of approximately ₦1,148.36 per litre in Niger Republic, ₦1,729.29 in Benin Republic and ₦1,945.50 in Cameroon, compared with ₦1,390 in Nigeria.

Shettima also referred to Nigeria’s previous daily petrol consumption of about 67 million litres, arguing that the former pricing arrangement benefited neighbouring countries.

“Nigeria was Christmas for other African countries,” he said.

His comments come amid continuing debate over subsidy removal and the Federal Government’s handling of the economy.

Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, has frequently used economic data and public spending figures to challenge government decisions. He has also called for greater transparency, fiscal discipline and accountability.

Shettima’s latest remarks add to the political exchanges between the government and opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.