The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has fiercely condemned the recent increase in petrol prices by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the hike as harsh and unjustified.
The NNPCL’s decision to raise the pump price of fuel from ₦568 to as high as ₦897 per litre has triggered widespread backlash amid ongoing fuel shortages and economic turmoil.
In a statement released on Thursday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) expressed deep concern over the steep price increase, which he said has imposed an unbearable burden on the already strained finances of ordinary Nigerians.
The NBA’s criticism follows a broader wave of discontent from various sectors, including political and labour groups.
“The cascading effects of such a steep increase in fuel prices on the cost of living, transportation, and essential goods and services are deeply troubling,” Osigwe stated.
“Many Nigerians are already grappling with inflation, unemployment, and other forms of hardship, and this additional financial strain is simply unsustainable.
“If allowed to persist, this price hike will only deepen the poverty and hardship experienced by the citizens.”
While acknowledging the need for economic reforms, the NBA stressed that such decisions must be made with careful consideration of their impact on the welfare of citizens.
The association has called on the Federal Government to halt the implementation of the new fuel price policy and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to explore more sustainable and less punitive alternatives.
“We urge the Federal Government to immediately halt the implementation of this policy,” Osigwe said.
“It is essential to engage in meaningful dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society organizations, labour unions, and economic experts, to find a more balanced approach.”
The NBA emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of citizens, especially the most vulnerable, and pursuing policies that alleviate rather than worsen the current hardships faced by Nigerians.
The NBA’s condemnation aligns with broader public discontent following the NNPCL’s decision.
The price hike, announced amidst ongoing fuel shortages, has already led to significant increases in transportation and living costs.
Many Nigerians are facing higher prices for essential goods and services, exacerbating the already challenging economic conditions.
The NNPCL’s announcement came in the wake of a report indicating that the company owes its suppliers over $6 billion in debt.
The organization has struggled to maintain fuel supplies due to financial difficulties, further contributing to the current crisis.
The hike in fuel prices has intensified public frustration, with many Nigerians expressing their discontent through protests and calls for government action.
The NBA’s position is echoed by other organizations and political groups. The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has also criticized the price increase, calling it “grossly insensitive” and urging the government to reverse the decision.
Labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have similarly condemned the hike, arguing that it will worsen the economic situation for Nigerian workers and citizens.
“We stand ready to engage constructively with the government to find a more equitable solution that ensures economic stability while safeguarding the interests of all Nigerians,” Osigwe said.
