FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has said President Bola Tinubu has no constitutional power to dictate how state and local governments spend the additional revenue accruing to them following the removal of the petrol subsidy.

Speaking at a media parley in Port Harcourt, Wike said the focus should now be on how the states are utilising the increased allocations.

He said Tinubu deserves commendation for taking the “bold decision” to remove the subsidy, adding that states that previously struggled to pay salaries and pensions now have greater financial capacity.

According to Wike, the increased revenue should translate into tangible development, and state governments must be held accountable for how they spend the funds.

The minister also faulted calls for a return to subsidy, arguing that the focus should instead be on ensuring that the gains from its removal are properly utilised for the benefit of citizens.