The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed its profound concern and strongly condemned the recent increase in the pump price of fuel from 617 Naira per liter to about 900 Naira by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
In a press statement issued by the president of the association, Afam Osigwe, the group said the significant and abrupt hike has imposed an unbearable burden on the already overstretched finances of ordinary Nigerians and further aggravated the economic challenges faced by millions across the country.
The NBA said while it acknowledges the necessity of economic reforms and recognizes government’s responsibility to make difficult decisions, these decisions must be made with the utmost consideration for their impact on the welfare of the citizens.
It says the sudden price hike is not only harsh but also unjustified at this time and called on the Federal Government to immediately halt the implementation of this policy and engage in meaningful dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, including civil society organizations, labor unions, and economic experts, to explore more sustainable and less punitive alternatives.
He also urged the government to prioritize the welfare of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, and to pursue policies that alleviate rather than exacerbate the hardship faced by the Nigerian people.
The president however assured Nigerians that the NBA will engage constructively with the government to find a more equitable solution that ensures economic stability while safeguarding the interests of all Nigerians.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
