The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed its profound concern and strongly condemned the recent increase in the pump price of fuel by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) which has risen sharply from N617 to about N900.
The NBA on Wednesday night condemned the decision of the NNPCL to increase fuel price in a statement signed by the President, Afam Osigwe (SAN).
Osigwe in the statement also called for an immediate reconsideration of the pump price of fuel by the NNPCL.
“This significant and abrupt hike has imposed an unbearable burden on the already overstretched finances of ordinary Nigerians, further aggravating the economic challenges faced by millions across the country,” he said.
“The cascading effects of such a steep increase in fuel prices on the cost of living, transportation, and essential goods and services are deeply troubling.
“Many Nigerians are already grappling with inflation, unemployment and other forms of hardship and this additional financial strain is simply unsustainable.
“If allowed to persist, this price hike will only deepen the poverty and hardship experienced by the citizens.”
While the NBA said it acknowledges the necessity of economic reforms and recognizes the government’s responsibility to make difficult decisions, it pointed out that these decisions must be made with the utmost consideration for their impact on the welfare of the citizens.
Osigwe said the NBA views this sudden price hike in fuel price as not only harsh but also unjustified at this time.
“In light of this, the Nigerian Bar Association calls 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 stated.
“We urge the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable and to pursue policies that alleviate rather than exacerbate the hardships faced by the Nigerian people.
“The NBA remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and will continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of all Nigerians.
“We stand ready to engage constructively with the government to find a more equitable solution that ensures economic stability while safeguarding the interests of all Nigerians.”
