Atiku: You Can’t Remove What Doesn’t Exist; I Postulate That There Is Nothing Like Fuel Subsidy – Duke
In a recent video shared on Channels TV on Monday, August 24, 2026, Donald Duke, PRP presidential candidate, spoke during the NBA Conference in Rivers State about fuel subsidy, petroleum pricing and the management of Nigeria’s natural resources.
During the discussion, Duke declared, “You can’t remove what doesn’t exist; I postulate that there is nothing like fuel subsidy.” He made the statement while challenging the way the government’s fuel subsidy policy has been explained to Nigerians.
Duke argued that Nigeria’s crude oil resources provide several petroleum products and questioned why Nigerians should face high energy costs despite the country possessing the raw materials needed for fuel production.
According to him, petrol is an important component of the economy because it affects transportation, businesses and household expenses. He therefore maintained that government policy should prioritize productivity and economic growth.
The PRP presidential candidate also questioned the argument that cheaper petrol would inevitably encourage smuggling into neighbouring countries. He suggested that effective border controls and proper monitoring could prevent the diversion of petroleum products.
Duke maintained that Nigeria should maximize the benefits of its crude oil resources instead of adopting policies that increase economic pressure on citizens.
He argued that government has a responsibility to ensure that essential resources are made available to citizens in ways that support economic productivity.
The former governor of Cross River State further emphasized that the country’s petroleum resources should be managed transparently and efficiently.
He maintained that Nigerians deserve to understand how crude oil is exchanged, refined and distributed, particularly when such processes have direct consequences for the price of petrol.
Duke concluded by calling for a more productive approach to energy policy, arguing that Nigeria should use its natural resources to support citizens and strengthen the economy rather than deepen economic hardship.
COURTESY: Choicegold
