Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has said state governors, rather than President Bola Tinubu, should explain how the subsidy removal gains received by states are being spent.
Abiodun made the comment on Thursday at an All Progressives Congress rally held at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Speaking in Yoruba, the governor argued that state governments were in a better position to account for the additional revenue because the removal of petrol subsidy increased allocations to states.
“They want to bring back subsidy. Are they mad? They were asking our leader to explain what he did with subsidy removal gains,” Abiodun said.
“It is we (governors) that should make such explanations because it is we, state governors, that collect the money,” he added.
The Ogun governor said the additional funds had been used by state governments to finance infrastructure and support initiatives.
He cited projects including airports, roads, schools and housing, as well as incentives provided to farmers.
“Besides, what have we been using to build airport, road, schools, housing and incentives for farmers? Isn’t it from subsidy?” he asked.
Abiodun’s comments came amid an ongoing political debate over the removal of petrol subsidy and whether the resulting savings and additional government revenues have been effectively utilised.
The Tinubu administration has maintained that resources previously used to keep petrol prices artificially low were redirected following the subsidy removal.
According to the Federal Government, the policy saved the federation N15.8 trillion between June 2023 and December 2025.
The Ogun governor also used the APC rally to attack opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. He expressed confidence that the ruling party would defeat its political rivals at the polls.
“Go and tell your people that all of them are not up to one. We will defeat them mercilessly,” he said.
His remarks come as opposition parties prepare for the next general election and debate alternative approaches to economic policies introduced by the Tinubu administration.
Among those advocating a reversal of the subsidy policy is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar.
Atiku has proposed restoring fuel subsidy if elected president.
The debate over subsidy removal gains is expected to remain an important political issue ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as Nigerians assess how additional government revenue has been deployed.
