Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi on Friday used the 2026 Workers’ Day to criticise the economic situation in Nigeria, highlighting what they described as worsening conditions for workers under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Workers’ Day, marked globally on May 1, is dedicated to celebrating labour contributions and advocating improved working conditions.
In his message posted on X, Obi paid tribute to Nigerian workers across sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, transport, security, and manufacturing, describing them as the backbone of national development.
He, however, said many workers are struggling due to rising inflation, food prices, and transport costs, arguing that the current minimum wage is insufficient for a decent standard of living.
Obi said no nation can progress without prioritising workers’ welfare, urging Nigerians to demand accountable leadership and reject corruption, ethnic division, and poor governance. He concluded with his familiar slogan that “a New Nigeria is POssible.”
In a separate message, Atiku Abubakar said he observed the day in “grief,” alleging that economic policies under the current administration have deepened hardship rather than deliver relief.
He criticised the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as poorly implemented and lacking adequate cushioning measures for citizens. According to him, the policy has contributed to rising transportation and food costs, worsening the burden on workers.
Atiku also questioned the management of savings from subsidy removal, alleging a lack of visible impact on ordinary Nigerians, and raised concerns about government spending priorities on major infrastructure projects.
While both politicians approached their remarks differently—Obi focusing on civic mobilisation and Atiku on economic policy—they both emphasised the central role of workers in national development and called for improved governance outcomes.
