Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the economic direction of President Bola Tinubu, saying Nigerian workers are bearing the brunt of policies that have deepened hardship nationwide.
In a workers’ day statement on Friday on his X handle, Atiku said the 2026 commemoration was marked not by celebration but by deep reflection on the worsening condition of the Nigerian worker.
“This year’s Workers’ Day is not a moment of joy for millions of Nigerians.
“It is a painful reminder of broken promises and a growing burden placed on the shoulders of those who keep this country running,” he said.
Atiku aimed at the administration’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as necessary but poorly executed.
“Let me be clear: the removal of fuel subsidy was inevitable and long overdue.
“However, its implementation by this administration was hasty, unstructured, and devoid of the necessary safeguards to protect ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
According to him, the immediate aftermath of the policy saw a sharp rise in the cost of living, with transportation, food prices, and basic goods becoming increasingly unaffordable for workers.
“What we have witnessed is a dramatic surge in the cost of living without any commensurate increase in wages or meaningful support systems.
“The Nigerian worker has been left to absorb shocks that should have been mitigated by responsible governance,” he added.
The former presidential candidate also questioned the management of funds saved from the subsidy removal, arguing that many Nigerians have yet to see tangible benefits.
“Trillions of naira have reportedly been saved, yet the average Nigerian cannot point to a single aspect of their lives that has improved as a result.
“This raises serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and priorities,” he said.
He further called on the Federal Government to adopt policies that directly ease the burden on workers, including wage adjustments, targeted social interventions, and investments in critical sectors such as healthcare and education.
“Economic reforms must be people-centred. Growth that does not translate into improved living conditions for workers is neither inclusive nor sustainable,” Atiku added.
Reaffirming his solidarity with Nigerian workers, Atiku urged the government to listen to their concerns and act decisively.
“On this Workers’ Day, I stand in solidarity with every Nigerian worker.
“Their resilience is remarkable, but resilience should not be mistaken for endurance of endless hardship. The time to act is now,” he added.
Workers’ Day, celebrated annually on May 1, honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement.
In Nigeria, it has increasingly become a platform to highlight economic challenges and call for improved welfare and working conditions.
By
TheTimes Nigeria
