NDC, Obidients condemn FG’s 30-day petrol discount

The Nigeria Democratic Congress and the Obidient Movement have criticized the Federal Government's 30-day petrol discount through NNPC retail stations, calling it "tokenism" and an "election year Greek gift." The measure, announced by Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele, is not a return to fuel subsidy but a margin discount aimed at selling petrol at cost, with priority for public transport operators.

The Obidient Movement questioned why the government waited three years to introduce measures to reduce the burden of high petrol prices. They argue that the policy is an election-season strategy, pointing out that Nigerians have endured high fuel prices, increased taxes, and rising costs since the removal of subsidy. The NDC described the announcement as "tokenism and a Greek gift" and criticized the government for removing fuel subsidy without proper consideration or cushions for Nigerians.

They also questioned the practicality of limiting discounted petrol to NNPC retail outlets and warned of potential congestion at filling stations. The government has outlined a broader package of interventions to cushion the effect of high fuel prices, including increased cash transfers, subsidized credit for small businesses and consumers, and a faster rollout of compressed natural gas vehicles.