The Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has leveled serious allegations against President Bola Tinubu's administration, claiming the government continues to pay fuel subsidy through "backdoor" channels despite publicly announcing its removal.

Speaking on a television program on Wednesday, Tanko criticized the administration for allegedly concealing the truth about subsidy payments from Nigerians, contradicting Tinubu's 2023 inauguration announcement that ended the subsidy regime.

"As of today, the fuel subsidy that was said to have been removed is still being paid through the back door. So where is the justification," Tanko stated during his appearance.

Economic Impact on Nigerians

Tanko highlighted the economic challenges facing Nigerians, pointing to the country's 34 percent inflation rate and its effect on household purchasing power. He suggested that citizens need only examine their own financial situations to evaluate the government's performance since taking office in 2023.

"You don't need anybody to tell you if this government has done good or not, all you need to do is visit your kitchen including those in government," he remarked, adding that comparing current purchasing power with previous periods would reveal "a dwindling economy."

"The major problem this particular government has is the inability to tell the Nigerian people the truth."

The Obidient Movement coordinator's comments come amid ongoing debates about the effectiveness of the government's economic reforms and transparency in policy implementation, particularly regarding the controversial fuel subsidy removal that has significantly impacted transportation costs and living expenses for average Nigerians.

While the government has maintained that subsidy removal was necessary to redirect funds toward development projects and reduce market distortions, critics like Tanko argue that the administration has not been forthright about the actual implementation of the policy.

The Presidency has yet to respond to these specific allegations about continued subsidy payments through alternative channels.