The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the rising cost of petrol, saying the increase to as much as N1,470 per litre in some locations is placing additional pressure on Nigerian households and businesses.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the rising cost of petrol was affecting transportation, food prices, electricity, education and other essential expenses.
The ADC described the current economic situation as increasingly difficult for Nigerians, arguing that households were struggling to cope with higher costs while incomes had not risen at a similar pace.
The party also cited reports of private schools increasing fees by between 30 and 40 per cent. It said the increases were adding to the financial burden on parents already dealing with higher food, rent, transportation and fuel costs.
The ADC, however, said it did not blame school proprietors for the increases, noting that they were also facing higher electricity bills, fuel costs, taxes, rent and staff expenses.
The party accused the Tinubu administration of imposing continued economic pressure on Nigerians and described petrol at N1,470 per litre as a “Tinubu Tax”, a characterization made by the opposition party in its statement.
The ADC further alleged that some families were being forced to make difficult choices over food, education and healthcare, while businesses were struggling with rising operating costs.
It called on the Federal Government to reconsider its economic approach and ensure that reforms translate into improved living conditions for citizens.
The party also linked the issue to the 2027 general election, saying its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, would pursue a policy aimed at reducing petrol prices through support for domestic fuel production.
According to the ADC, its proposed approach would involve reintroducing a form of subsidy targeted at domestic production, which it said could help reduce the cost of transportation, food and other goods.
Meanwhile, reports from NNPCL retail outlets indicate that petrol prices have risen significantly in recent weeks. The Guardian reported that prices at some NNPCL stations had reached N1,430 per litre, with checks in the FCT showing prices between N1,395 and N1,430 per litre.
The ADC urged the Federal Government not to interpret Nigerians’ ability to endure rising costs as acceptance of the current economic situation.
“President Tinubu must act now. Don’t push Nigerians to their limits,” the party said.
