15 NORTHERN STATES MAY COLLAPSE IF SUBSIDY RETURNS, DON WARNS

A professor has warned that restoring the petrol subsidy could put the finances of as many as 15 northern states under severe pressure, potentially leading to a collapse of their governments within three months.

According to the professor, bringing back the subsidy would reduce the amount of money available for distribution through the Federation Account, leaving affected states with significantly less revenue to fund salaries, infrastructure and other government responsibilities.

He argued that many of the affected states already depend heavily on federal allocations and could struggle to meet their financial obligations if those funds were reduced.

The professor therefore cautioned against returning to the subsidy system, stressing that the government should instead focus on policies that can strengthen internally generated revenue and improve the economy.

The warning comes amid continued debate over the impact of petrol prices and the removal of fuel subsidy on Nigerians, particularly low-income households and businesses.

While supporters of subsidy removal argue that it frees government funds for development, critics maintain that the policy has increased the cost of living and placed additional pressure on households.

The professor’s warning has added another dimension to the ongoing national debate over whether Nigeria should reconsider its petrol subsidy policy.