Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has promised to restore petroleum subsidy if elected president in the 2027 general elections, but said his administration would first tackle corruption in the system.
Obi made the declaration on Monday, September 28, 2026, during a town hall meeting organised for the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket in Sokoto State.
The former Anambra State governor identified corruption as one of the major challenges undermining Nigeria’s economy and public institutions.
According to Obi, the debate over fuel subsidy should focus not only on the policy itself but also on the corruption and leakages associated with the petroleum sector.
“People are talking about subsidy but what is all about it is corruption. By removing the corruption, I assure you that we will bring back subsidy,” Obi said.
He added that if elected, his administration would take steps to eliminate corruption across all sectors of the country.
Obi’s New Position On Fuel Subsidy
Obi’s latest position marks a significant development in his comments on petroleum subsidy.
TheCable reported that the NDC presidential candidate had, in August 2026, defended the removal of petrol subsidy, arguing that mismanagement of the proceeds from its removal was not sufficient reason to reverse the policy.
His latest statement in Sokoto indicates that he would consider reinstating the subsidy after addressing what he described as corruption within the system.
The petrol subsidy was removed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in 2023, triggering a sharp increase in petrol prices and intensifying concerns over transportation costs, food prices and household expenses.
The issue has remained a major economic and political debate ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi Lists Education, Security As Priorities
Speaking at the Sokoto town hall, Obi also outlined some of the priorities he said would guide his administration if elected.
He identified national unity and security as key priorities, while describing education as a major focus of his proposed government.
“Education is our number one priority after unity and security,” Obi said.
The former Anambra governor also promised to deploy national resources towards improving critical sectors and addressing the economic difficulties facing Nigerians.
Peter Obi Promises Railway Connection Across States
Obi further proposed the development of railway infrastructure connecting state capitals across Nigeria.
He said the proposed railway network would help improve transportation, stimulate economic activity and support development across the country.
The railway plan formed part of the wider infrastructure agenda presented during the Sokoto engagement.
Kwankwaso Speaks On Insecurity
NDC vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, also addressed the gathering, saying the delegation was in Sokoto to engage residents and seek support ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former Kano State governor said the delegation had earlier visited the Sultan of Sokoto, who, according to Kwankwaso, prayed for the success of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.
Kwankwaso also highlighted insecurity, particularly banditry and kidnapping in the North-West.
He said the NDC would seek to address the security challenges confronting different parts of the country if given the opportunity to govern.
“We are, therefore, committed to mitigating all these challenges and make Nigeria better,” he said.
NDC Intensifies 2027 Campaign Activities
The Sokoto town hall is part of the NDC’s wider engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi and Kwankwaso have continued consultations and engagements with residents, party officials and candidates as the party develops its campaign structure.
The party has previously said its presidential campaign organogram was being prepared, with Obi and Kwankwaso involved in selecting key officials.
The NDC has also continued to present security, education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic reforms as key areas of its proposed 2027 agenda. Recent reporting confirms that the party has been organising nationwide political engagements ahead of the election.
