Presidential aspirant Ada Kate Uchegbu has stirred fresh debate in Nigeria’s political space after unveiling her campaign poster with a bold promise to restore fuel subsidy and review what she described as “harsh tax laws.”
Uchegbu, who is contesting for the nation’s top seat ahead of the next general election, declared that her administration would prioritise immediate economic relief for Nigerians grappling with rising costs of living.
Speaking during the unveiling, the female presidential hopeful also sparked conversation by asserting that a woman would perform better as president than a man.
“This is not just about fuel. It is about survival,” she said. “It is about the mother who cannot afford to feed her children, the worker whose salary no longer sustains transportation, and the small business owner pushed to the brink.”
The aspirant, who is campaigning under the slogan, “A Mother’s Care for Nigeria,” maintained that the removal of fuel subsidy has worsened inflation and deepened hardship across the country.
According to her, bringing back the subsidy would serve as a short-term intervention to cushion the effects of the current economic realities.
She, however, assured that her proposed subsidy regime would differ from previous systems often criticised for corruption and inefficiency.
Uchegbu outlined plans to introduce a digitally monitored framework aimed at blocking leakages, while also prioritising local refining to reduce dependence on fuel imports.
She added that strict accountability measures would be put in place to ensure that the benefits reach ordinary Nigerians rather than intermediaries.
The presidential hopeful further noted that beyond subsidy, her administration would focus on long-term reforms, including investment in energy infrastructure, job creation and industrial growth.
Her comments have since generated mixed reactions across social media, with some Nigerians expressing optimism over her proposals, while others questioned the sustainability of reintroducing fuel subsidy.
Political analysts say the subsidy debate is likely to remain a major campaign issue, given its direct impact on citizens and the economy.
Uchegbu, however, insisted that her mission is clear.
“Nigeria must work for its people again. And under my leadership, it will,” she said.
