Nollywood Actor Wale Okunnu Blames Marketers as Petrol Price Hits N1350 Per Litre
Nollywood actor Wale Okunnu has publicly criticized petroleum marketers, holding them responsible for the recent and sharp increase in the pump price of petrol across Nigeria. In a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, Okunnu expressed deep concern and frustration over the escalating cost of fuel, which has now reached an alarming N1350 per litre.
Rapid Price Surge Within Hours
Okunnu highlighted the rapid nature of the price hike, noting that petrol was selling at N1240 per litre on Saturday, only to jump to N1340 per litre by Sunday, March 22. This significant increase within a matter of hours has left many Nigerians bewildered and struggling to cope with the economic implications.
"Please, is it the government that increased the pump price within hours or we the people?" Okunnu questioned in the video. He pointedly directed blame towards the marketers, suggesting that their actions are a primary driver of the crisis. "What the marketers are doing with regards to petrol pump price is not small," he asserted, emphasizing the severity of their role in the pricing dynamics.
Questioning Nigeria's Fuel Dependency
The actor further probed the paradox of Nigeria's situation, given the country's status as a major crude oil producer. "We know there is war in Israel and Iran, but don't we have our own crude oil?" he asked, referencing global conflicts that often impact oil prices. Okunnu contrasted Nigeria with other nations, wondering why fuel prices in Nigeria are disproportionately high compared to those in other oil-producing countries.
"Other countries that have petrol, why is theirs not as expensive as ours?" he pondered, suggesting that internal factors, rather than solely international market trends, are to blame. This line of questioning underscores a broader national debate about fuel subsidy removal, import dependency, and local refining capacities.
A Call for Self-Reflection
In a poignant conclusion, Okunnu attributed the suffering to collective inaction or complicity. "We are the ones punishing ourselves," he stated, implying that Nigerians, through tolerance of such practices, bear some responsibility for the ongoing crisis. This statement resonates with many citizens who feel caught between government policies and corporate exploitation.
The video, shared on Instagram by popular blog Linda Ikeji, has sparked widespread discussion online, with many users echoing Okunnu's sentiments. It highlights the growing public discontent over economic hardships exacerbated by rising fuel costs, which affect transportation, goods, and services across the nation.
As petrol prices continue to fluctuate, the actor's outcry adds to the chorus of voices demanding transparency and accountability from both marketers and governmental bodies. The situation remains a critical issue for Nigeria's economy and daily life, with many hoping for swift interventions to stabilize prices and alleviate the burden on ordinary citizens.
