Reps minority caucus demands reversal of increase in fuel

The minority caucus of the House of Representatives has demanded the immediate reversal of the increase in fuel prices across the country.

Led by Mr Kingsley Chinda, the lawmakers, in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, noted that the increase is not only ill-timed but also grossly insensitive to the harsh economic conditions currently being experienced by Nigerians.

The caucus remarked that the ripple effects of such an increase are far-reaching, impacting the cost of transportation, food, and other essential goods and services, which will ultimately erode the already fragile purchasing power of millions of citizens, pushing more families into poverty.

The caucus particularly expressed concern that the decision by the NNPC appears to have been made without adequate consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the National Assembly, which represents the interests of the people.

“This unilateral action disregards the principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness, which should guide decisions affecting the lives of the citizenry,” it lamented.

“The current dire economic conditions, characterised 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.”

The caucus urged the government to explore and implement more sustainable measures to stabilise the economy without placing an additional burden on the people.

This, the caucus noted, includes prioritising the rehabilitation and upgrading of 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 prioritise 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 caucus affirmed.