By Dare Akogun
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for an immediate reversal of the recent hike in the price of petrol.
The union made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Secretary of the Union, Shuaibu Usman Leman who highlighted the impact of this development on transportation costs and the soaring prices of food items, which have become increasingly unaffordable for many citizens.
The pump price was raised from N537/litre to N617/litre at some filling stations operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to the statement, “the NUJ acknowledged the decision to remove costly fuel subsidies but cautioned against the hasty implementation of the policy without adequate measures in place to alleviate the effects on the general population.
“The union noted that the sudden surge in petrol prices has led to significant difficulties in commuting to work or conducting other daily activities.
“Many citizens are experiencing increased stress and financial strain due to the rapid escalation of transportation costs. Additionally, those reliant on generators for power in their homes are also facing considerable challenges.
“We believe that this sudden decision is an overkill, and we urge that the situation should be reversed immediately while adequate measures are considered and put in place to lessen the effects on ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
The union however urged the authorities to consider and implement appropriate measures that would alleviate the burdens faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The statement highlights the concerns shared by journalists and underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address the impact of the fuel price increase.
In the first half of 2023, Nigeria spent N3.6 trillion on fuel subsidies alone.
According to the Federal Government, the country will save close to N6.7 trillion if fuel subsidies payment is discontinued.
Nigeria has spent N13.7 trillion on fuel subsidies in the last 13 years, according to Nigeria’s Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
