Former presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina has defended ex-President Muhammadu Buhari’s decision to maintain the petrol subsidy, stating it stemmed from his deep concern for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
Adesina, in a tribute marking Buhari’s 82nd birthday, acknowledged the financial burden of the subsidy but emphasized Buhari’s focus on protecting the “poor and underprivileged.”
He explained that Buhari believed the benefits of high oil prices rarely reached ordinary citizens, questioning why they should bear the brunt of lower prices.
While acknowledging the consensus for subsidy removal by the time Buhari left office, Adesina suggested he avoided it to prevent societal upheaval.
Adesina portrayed Buhari as a leader deeply connected to the masses, earning him the title “Ore Mekunu” (friend of the poor).
