Fuel discount not for votes, we are not that dumb – FG
The Federal Government has dismissed claims that its recently announced fuel discount is an attempt to influence voter behavior in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele addressed these accusations during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday. He asserted that the government is not naive enough to pursue such a strategy, emphasizing that the initiative is aimed at assisting the Nigerian populace.
The government recently disclosed a 30-day discount on petrol sold by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Opposition figures have alleged that the discount is a ploy designed to sway public opinion and garner votes for the ruling party in the upcoming elections.
In response, Oyedele stated, “There are some politicians who think that Nigerians are stupid. The election is in January; this discount is for one month. Are we that dumb to think a one-month discount would persuade you to vote for us in January? It simply doesn’t add up.”
He further emphasized the importance of recognizing the intelligence of the average Nigerian. “NNPC is owned by the government. What is wrong with offering a discount that is limited to the company’s profit? Aren’t we trying to help the Nigerian people?”
Oyedele also highlighted that the government is considering a total of 17 measures to support citizens, questioning why only this discount has drawn scrutiny given its timing relative to the elections.
