On Workers' Day 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former presidential candidate Peter Obi issued separate statements criticizing President Bola Tinubu's administration over the plight of Nigerian workers.
Atiku Slams Tinubu's Government
Atiku Abubakar criticized the Tinubu administration for alleged broken promises and increased burdens on workers. He described the 2023 fuel subsidy removal as a necessary step but implemented recklessly. Atiku stated: "The subsidy had become a fiscal hemorrhage that enriched cabal middlemen while denying the government resources for development. Its removal was necessary and overdue. But the manner in which the Tinubu administration executed this policy was irresponsible and callous." He added that on inauguration day, with no preparation or safety nets, the President announced the end of the subsidy, causing fuel prices to skyrocket and transportation costs to double or triple overnight. The cost of food and basic goods soared, making survival a luxury for the average Nigerian worker.
Atiku suggested that the administration should have spent preceding months adequately preparing citizens for the transition. His full statement was shared on social media.
Obi Calls Workers' Plight 'Deeply Painful'
Peter Obi saluted Nigerian workers but described their situation as "deeply painful." He noted that those who teach, heal, build, farm, produce, transport, protect, and serve the country daily are still denied the dignity and fair reward their labor deserves. Obi criticized the government, arguing that the minimum wage can no longer guarantee a modest standard of living as inflation, rising food prices, transport costs, and wider economic hardship erode the value of honest work. He challenged the Tinubu administration to prioritize the well-being of the workforce.
Obi's full statement was also shared on social media.
Political Context
Atiku and Obi are members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition and are expected to contest the party's presidential primaries later in 2026.
Workers' Day Holiday Declared
Earlier, the federal government declared Friday, May 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate International Workers' Day. Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made the announcement, congratulating Nigerian workers on the occasion.
