President Bola Tinubu’s recent statement advising Nigerians to buy petrol at N1,000 per liter or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) at N200 per meter has sparked widespread outrage and a source of concern among Nigerians. This comes after fuel prices skyrocketed to N1,300 per liter at some locations, a staggering increase from the N195 per liter price when he Tinubu took office less than 18 months ago.
The fuel subsidy removal, implemented by Tinubu’s administration, has led to a surge in transportation costs, with prices increasing by over 300%. This has had a ripple effect on the economy, with inflation rising to alarming levels. I will continue to argue that due to the failure of the government to provide a proper policy framework before implementing the subsidy removal, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of the decision.
The removal of the fuel subsidy has worsened poverty levels, with the number of malnourished Nigerians increasing. The surge in fuel prices has led to increased transportation costs, affecting the livelihoods of many Nigerians. The government’s handling of the fuel subsidy removal has been criticized for lacking transparency and accountability.
Instead of providing tangible solutions to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, This administration has resorted to insensitive statements. The recent launch of CNG at N230 per liter, while I see it a welcome move, does little to address the underlying issues caused by the fuel subsidy removal.
The consequences of the fuel subsidy removal are dire, with increased poverty, economic hardship, and lack of transparency. To move forward, Tinubu’s government must learn on how to prioritize the welfare of our citizens and develop policies that promote economic stability and growth in place of inconsistent and insensitive government statement.
This includes providing a proper policy framework that will ensure a robust implementation, investing in alternative energy sources, and addressing corruption surrounding the fuel subsidy. Fundamentally, Nigerians deserve better than insensitive statements and impulsive policy decisions. Tinubu’s government must demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through effective governance and policy decisions.
HIGH CHIEF AMEH PETER
NATIONAL SECRETARY, CUPP.
FORMER NATIONAL CHAIRMAN IPAC.
EX PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE.
