African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider reducing fuel taxes, citing Germany’s recent decision to lower energy taxes as part of efforts to ease pressure on households and businesses.

Atiku made the call in a statement issued by his campaign’s Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, where he criticised the Federal Government’s response to the rising cost of living.

He argued that high petrol prices have increased transportation costs and contributed to higher prices of food and other essential goods.

Atiku also faulted the administration’s continued defence of the removal of petrol subsidy, including President Tinubu’s description of subsidies as “addictive.”

His comments followed Germany’s decision to temporarily reduce energy taxes on petrol and diesel from October 1 to December 31, 2026. The German government said the measure was designed to provide relief to consumers and businesses facing elevated energy costs.

Atiku said Nigeria could adopt a similar approach to reduce the impact of fuel prices on citizens.

He also proposed targeted government support for petrol produced by domestic refineries instead of a blanket fuel subsidy. According to him, such support should be tied specifically to locally refined fuel and subjected to strict public auditing.

The former vice president said the approach would help reduce pump prices, encourage domestic refining and create jobs while eliminating support for imported fuel.

Atiku further criticised the Federal Government’s claim that salaries and pensions were being paid on time and in full, saying some workers had experienced delays and pensioners were still awaiting payments.

He said Nigerians facing rising costs should receive greater relief from government and promised to pursue policies aimed at reducing living costs if elected in 2027.