Buhari Has Not Directed Petroleum Subsidy Removal – Senate President

Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday stated that President Muhammadu Buhari has not given any order on the removal of petroleum subsidy.

Recall that the Nigerian Labor Congress, NLC, had earlier directed its members to prepare for a one day strike on January 27, 2022 in response to the planned subsidy removal on petroleum and the imposed tax on soft drinks.

Speaking to State House correspondents after a meeting with President Buhari, Lawan said lawmakers were concerned over the different protests and agitation currently rocking the nation which has led to discussions with the president.

He said: “Well, it will be of interest to Nigerians to hear what I’ve come to discuss with Mr President among several other things.

“Many of us are very concerned with the recent agitations, protests, and many citizens were so concerned, our constituents across the country are very concerned that the federal government will remove the petroleum subsidy. And for us, as parliamentarians, as legislators representing the people of Nigeria, this must be of interest to us.

“And we’ve just finished our recess, we had gone home to our constituencies and senatorial districts. And will feel the pulse of our people. And I found it necessary to visit Mr President, as the leader of our government and our leader in the country, to discuss this particular issue of concern to Nigerians, and I’m happy to inform Nigerians that Mr President never told anyone that the petroleum subsidy should be removed.”