Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has urged the federal government to reconsider the recent surge in fuel prices, which has inflicted significant hardship on the Nigerian populace.
The recent price rise implemented by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has drawn considerable backlash, with numerous Nigerians voicing their dissatisfaction on social media platforms.
In a statement shared on his X account, Obi described the NNPCL’s decision to raise fuel prices without any justification as “unfortunate and insensitive.”
He asserted that this action not only underscores the federal government’s misguided policy decisions but also reveals a lack of empathy toward the struggles faced by Nigerians.
Obi stated, “As Nigerians continue to suffer under harsh economic conditions, primarily due to the federal government’s flawed policy choices, the NNPCL has once again increased the price of fuel (PMS) without providing any rationale.
“This is both unfortunate and insensitive, given the far-reaching adverse effects on our economic survival and well-being.
“This approach does not reflect sound economic management or proper governance. This new policy lacks both economic rationale and necessary compassion.
“While we are informed that the NNPCL operates as a limited liability company, regulated by bodies such as the NUPRC and NMDPRA, there appears to be growing ambiguity regarding the functions and responsibilities of the NNPCL and these regulatory agencies.
“Notably, both the NNPCL and the regulatory agencies fall under the oversight of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, with the President of Nigeria serving as the acting Minister.
“In this context, the question arises: who is responsible for regulating whom? Given the unprecedented and avoidable hardship currently faced by Nigerians, the onus of providing a comprehensive explanation, presenting alternative solutions, and crucially, reversing the abrupt price increase lies firmly with the Honorable Minister of Petroleum Resources and President of Nigeria. We sincerely hope he acts in the best interest of the majority of Nigerians, who are enduring unnecessarily difficult circumstances, especially before his return from his working vacation.
“To impose such a harsh measure on the populace while enjoying the comforts of an annual vacation reflects a troubling disregard for the people’s welfare. A new, more compassionate Nigeria is indeed within reach!”
