Intervene in Oil & Gas Sector, Reduce Petrol, Diesel Pump Prices, Atiku Appeals to Tinubu

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the oil and gas sector by reducing petrol and diesel pump prices for the betterment of Nigerians. Atiku made these remarks at a press conference in Abuja, emphasizing that the burden of high fuel prices has been passed from petrol stations to consumers, affecting various aspects of life.

He explained that when petrol becomes expensive, transportation, food, farmers, traders, workers, and businesses all experience higher costs. Atiku argued that government policies causing energy prices to rise are leading to increased expenses for the average Nigerian family. He criticized Tinubu for dismissing Atiku's proposal as "serious ignorance" of governance and the economy, despite the growing concerns from labor unions, petroleum marketers, and manufacturers.

Atiku highlighted that businesses are struggling with rising production costs and unsold goods, while families find it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities. He stressed that economic growth should benefit the general population, as evidenced by the purchasing power of citizens reflecting government revenues. Atiku called on Tinubu to act within his remaining eight months in office, stating that a sensible idea should not be dismissed because it came from an opponent.

He warned against using palliatives instead of addressing the root causes of the problem, emphasizing that electricity is already costly and affecting various sectors, including manufacturing, transportation, and daily household expenses.