“The Withdrawal Of The Fuel Subsidy, You Kept It A Top Secret, it Wasn’t Part Of Your Speech–VP

According to him, the President ensured that the policy was not openly discussed in his inaugural address, treating it as a sensitive national decision that required strict confidentiality at the time.

The disclosure was made on Friday during a high-level courtesy visit by state governors to the President at his private residence in Lagos.

The visit formed part of activities marking both the Eid el-Kabir celebrations and the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration, bringing together key political leaders from across the country to reflect on governance, reforms, and ongoing national developments.

Shettima explained that the meeting provided an opportunity for governors and the presidency to reflect on major policy decisions taken since the inception of the administration.

He noted that the gathering was significant not only for its ceremonial value but also for the political discussions and recollections of critical moments that shaped the early direction of the government.

According to him, the decision to exclude the fuel subsidy removal from the President’s inaugural speech was intentional and strategic.

He suggested that including such a major policy announcement at that stage could have triggered opposition or attempts to persuade the President to reconsider, potentially delaying or weakening the implementation of the reform.

He further indicated that the secrecy surrounding the policy reflected the sensitivity of the economic reform agenda at the time the administration assumed office.

The Vice President’s remarks highlighted how certain key decisions were handled discreetly within the leadership circle to ensure that the government could act decisively once in office, particularly on issues considered financially and politically sensitive.

He said, “Your Excellency, the withdrawal of the fuel subsidy, you kept it a top secret; it wasn’t part of your speech.”