Nigerians Express Outrage Over New Petrol Prices Amidst Worsening Scarcity
Nigerians were taken aback this week by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) decision to increase petrol prices from N617 to N857 per litre. This hike has exacerbated the country’s already dire situation, with severe fuel shortages particularly evident in Abuja, where petrol queues have persisted for over two months.
The price increase has intensified the hardships faced by many, with only a few filling stations dispensing fuel. There are also growing concerns about potential meter tampering at fuel stations, including those owned by the government, which might be further disadvantaging consumers.
The NNPCL recently acknowledged a substantial $6 billion debt related to its international supply chain. Since the removal of the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, petrol prices have fluctuated, with NNPCL maintaining a price of N617 per litre while other retailers charged higher amounts.
Frustrated Nigerians have voiced their discontent. One individual expressed frustration over the impact of the price hike on his finances, stating that after deducting transportation costs, his salary leaves him with almost nothing, making it difficult to support his family and manage other expenses. He criticized the government for focusing on luxury while neglecting the pressing needs of the populace.
Owoicho Emmanuel, a civil servant, recounted his difficulties with the fuel scarcity, describing how it has affected his daily commute and increased transportation costs. He compared the current administration’s impact to that of the previous one, suggesting that the current government is causing even greater suffering.
Onwa Amadi lamented the scarcity and high cost of fuel, questioning where to find fuel at such prices and criticizing the inefficiency of the current system.
Energy expert Eleojo Joseph criticized the recent price increase as an insensitive move, arguing that it exacerbates the pain caused by the subsidy removal. He speculated that the increase might be intended to undermine the expected benefits of the Dangote refinery or to retaliate against Dangote.
Joseph also highlighted the persistent issues of fuel scarcity and corruption, noting that the NNPCL’s financial difficulties and exhausted credit lines contribute to the ongoing crisis. He called for reforms, including the removal of current leadership at NNPCL and other regulatory bodies.
In response to the crisis, the federal government has promised improvements. Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, assured that the government is working on solutions to resolve the fuel pricing and scarcity issues. The effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
