A chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has condemned the recent increase in petrol prices by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and revert the prices to their previous levels.
He warned that the hike will further compound the hardships faced by Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Thursday and made available to Vanguard, Ajadi described the price hike as insensitive, particularly given the already difficult economic conditions many Nigerians are enduring.
He stressed that even at the previous price, many citizens struggled to afford petrol, and the new price would only deepen their suffering.
“We were shocked to see the sudden rise in petrol prices.
I urge President Tinubu, who also holds the position of Minister of Petroleum, to direct the NNPC to revert to the old price.”
“As an economist, he must understand the far-reaching consequences of continually increasing petrol prices.”
Ajadi illustrated the burden this price hike places on everyday Nigerians, noting that many people have resorted to walking long distances due to skyrocketing transport fares.
He expressed concern that rising fuel costs would further inflate food prices and other essential goods, making life increasingly difficult for the average citizen.
“I call upon President Tinubu, elder statesmen, and the National Assembly to address this alarming decision by the NNPC.”
“We cannot allow the poor to suffer further amid our nation’s resources. We must prioritize the well-being of our citizens and prevent them from being suffocated by financial strain.”
Ajadi, who was the NNPP’s gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 elections, reiterated the need for decisive action to alleviate the burdens on Nigerians, urging leaders to act swiftly and compassionately.
