The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the latest increase in petrol prices across Nigeria, describing it as a cruel, insensitive, and economically destructive decision that has further weaponized poverty against already suffering citizens.
HURIWA's Stance on the Price Hike
HURIWA stated that the abrupt hike in petrol prices, triggered by Dangote Refinery's increase of gantry price by 75 naira per liter, has led filling stations to sell between 1,365 and 1,370 naira per liter. This represents an economic ambush on Nigerians, a calculated economic exploitation unleashed on the impoverished and massively deprived citizens who seem to have lost the sense of national outrage legally demonstrated through peaceful protests.
NNPC's Role in the Price Increase
Also yesterday, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) increased the pump price of petrol in both Lagos and Abuja, citing higher supply costs in the downstream sector. NNPC stations in Lagos now sell petrol at 1,320 naira per liter, up from 1,245 naira. In Abuja, the price rose to 1,364 naira from 1,295 naira, marking an increase of 69 naira per liter.
Consequences of the Price Hike
HURIWA warned that the consequences will be immediate and devastating. Millions of small businesses, which are the backbone of Nigeria's informal economy, are now on the brink of extinction. It is both shocking and unacceptable that Nigeria, a leading crude oil-producing nation, has become a global symbol of energy injustice, where citizens pay exorbitant prices for a resource their country abundantly produces.
Criticism of Justifications
The justification being pushed—rising crude oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East—is not only weak but fundamentally dishonest. Countries directly affected by these tensions have not imposed such punishing fuel costs on their citizens, yet Nigerians are being forced to bear the brunt of global volatility without any form of protection.
Demand for Presidential Intervention
HURIWA demands immediate and decisive intervention by President Bola Tinubu to halt this reckless escalation of petrol prices. The government must urgently implement price stabilization mechanisms, enforce strict regulatory oversight, and ensure that no private entity is allowed to exploit Nigerians under the guise of market forces.
