As Nigerians grapple with the recent surge in fuel prices by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, here are the latest developments regarding petrol scarcity and government and citizen reactions.
IMF Clarifies Role in Fuel Subsidy Removal
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has officially denied any involvement in Nigeria’s decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, stating that the choice was made independently by the Nigerian government. This clarification comes amid widespread criticisms that link the IMF to the country’s recent economic policies, which have led to increased inflation and hardship for citizens. During a press conference at the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., Abebe Selassie, the IMF’s Director for the African Region, explained, “The decision was a domestic one… Our role is limited to regular dialogue with nations like Japan or the UK.” He emphasized that the subsidy removal aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic strategy for sustainable growth.
Atiku Abubakar Warns Against Dangerous Fuel Retrieval Practices
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a stark warning to Nigerians against the hazardous practice of collecting fuel from overturned tankers. This caution follows a viral video from Cross River State that showed residents attempting to retrieve petrol from a fallen tanker, disregarding safety. Atiku’s warning comes in the wake of a tragic incident on October 16, where over 180 people lost their lives due to an explosion while scooping fuel from a tanker in Jigawa. He urged government agencies to launch awareness campaigns about the dangers involved in such actions, stating, “Your lives are the most precious things that should never be mortgaged.”
Call for Leadership in Nigeria’s Petroleum Sector
Austin Aigbe, the Regional Advocacy Lead and ECOWAS Liaison Officer for the West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network, has stressed the urgent need for a competent minister to lead Nigeria’s struggling petroleum sector following President Bola Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle. In an interview with ARISE NEWS, Aigbe highlighted the importance of having a dedicated leader to address the challenges faced by the vital energy sector. He praised the president’s initiative to assess and adjust the cabinet structure, noting, “You have to look at where the pitfalls are.” Aigbe emphasized that focused leadership is crucial to navigate the complexities of the petroleum industry and implement necessary reforms.
News Editor