Reps minority caucus demands reversal of hike in petrol price | Read More
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has rejected the recent hike in fuel price m by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, demanding an immediate reversal.
A statement signed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, on Thursday, said the increase will affect Nigerians drastically owing to the current economic crisis in the country.
”The ripple effects of such an increase are far-reaching, impacting the cost of transportation, food, and other essential goods and services.
”This unilateral action disregards the principles of transparency, accountability and fairness, which should guide decisions affecting the lives of the citizenry.
”The current dire economic conditions, characterized by rising unemployment, soaring inflation, and widening inequality, have placed immense pressure on the livelihoods of citizens. These hardships have understandably triggered widespread protests, as people demand relief and accountability from those in power.
”The resulting unrest and chaos serve as stark reminders that economic instability can quickly escalate into broader social and political instability.
”While it is crucial for all stakeholders, including government, businesses, and civil society, to work collaboratively to address these economic challenges and restore stability before the situation deteriorates further, Tinubu’s government should as a matter of urgency address the connection between dire economic conditions and social unrest rather than create conditions that exacerbate the already dire economic conditions.
”Not doing so merely provides excuses for the army of youths who are jobless to return to occupy the streets and unleash violence on our country.
“This government must learn lessons from the destructive effects of the national protests against bad governance, triggered by depressing and excruciating economic conditions.
”We, therefore, call on the Federal Government to urgently intervene and reverse this unwarranted increase in petrol prices. We also urge the government to explore and implement more sustainable measures to stabilize the economy without placing an additional burden on the people.
“This includes prioritizing the rehabilitation and upgrading of our local refineries, curbing corruption within the petroleum sector, and ensuring that subsidies genuinely benefit the masses rather than a few privileged individuals.
”The Minority Caucus stands with the Nigerian people in rejecting this petrol price hike and will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize the welfare and well-being of all citizens.
“We urge the government to listen to the voice of the people and take immediate steps to alleviate their suffering, rather than aggravate it,” the statement read in part.
