Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent and unexpected increase in fuel prices. This criticism comes as Tinubu enjoys an annual vacation abroad, specifically in France. The sudden hike has raised eyebrows among many Nigerians, particularly given the timing of the president’s absence.
According to reports from Daily Trust, while President Tinubu was in London, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced a significant increase in fuel prices. In Abuja, the price per litre surged from N897 to N1,030, while in Lagos, it jumped from N855 to N998. Other regions also saw similar increases, with prices reaching N1,070 in the North-East and varying amounts in the South-West, South-East, and South-South regions.
This fuel price increase has sparked widespread discontent among Nigerians, prompting many to urge President Tinubu to take immediate action to reverse the hike. Citizens are expressing their frustration over the rising costs, which they believe are exacerbating their already challenging economic circumstances.
In response to the backlash, the Federal Government, through Information Minister Mohammed Idris, has stated that the NNPCL is solely responsible for the price increase. This assertion has not quelled public dissatisfaction, as many believe the government should intervene to protect citizens from such sudden economic burdens.
Read also: The Information Minister says the government isn’t to blame for rising fuel prices
Obi took to social media, specifically X, to voice his concerns regarding the situation. He lamented that Nigerians are enduring severe economic hardships, which he attributes largely to the Federal Government’s poor decision-making. His comments reflect a growing sentiment among the populace regarding the government’s handling of economic issues.
In his tweets, Obi emphasized the unfortunate nature of the NNPCL’s decision to raise fuel prices without providing any justification. He described the situation as insensitive, particularly given the negative repercussions it has on the economic survival and well-being of ordinary Nigerians.
The former governor of Anambra State criticized the management of the nation’s resources, arguing that the current approach lacks both sound economic principles and necessary compassion for the citizens. He expressed concern that such decisions are detrimental to the overall governance of the nation.
Interestingly, Obi pointed out that the NNPCL and the regulatory agencies responsible for overseeing it are meant to operate under the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources. He questioned the clarity of roles and responsibilities within this framework, particularly with the president serving as the substantive minister.
Obi’s remarks underscore a broader call for accountability and transparency in how the country manages its petroleum resources. As citizens continue to grapple with rising fuel prices and their associated costs, the demand for effective governance and sound economic policies has never been more pronounced.
In conclusion, the recent fuel price hike has ignited significant debate and dissatisfaction among Nigerians. As political figures like Peter Obi vocalize their concerns, the pressure on the government to address these economic challenges intensifies, highlighting the need for responsible leadership and strategic decision-making in the face of adversity.
