A wave of nationwide outrage has erupted following reports that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has allegedly increased the pump price of petrol to N855 per litre. This significant hike, if confirmed, represents a sharp increase from the previous price of N568 per litre, leaving Nigerians grappling with the potential economic repercussions.
The news of the price adjustment reportedly broke on Tuesday morning, with sources indicating that NNPCL retail outlets in Lagos had already adjusted their meters to reflect the new price. This sudden and steep hike has led to widespread confusion and anxiety, as NNPCL has not yet released an official statement confirming or denying the reports. The lack of clarity has only added to the public’s frustration and concern, fueling speculation and panic buying.
As a result of the rumored price hike, long fuel queues have been observed across Lagos and other parts of the country, as motorists and other consumers rush to fill their tanks in anticipation of further increases. This has caused significant disruptions in daily activities, with many fearing that the higher fuel costs will lead to increased prices for goods and services across the board, exacerbating the already challenging economic conditions in the country.
The response on social media has been intense, with many Nigerians expressing their anger and dismay at the possibility of yet another burden being placed on them. On X (formerly Twitter), the reactions have been swift and impassioned. Obianozor Victor Nduka commented, “Oru la n seka. Evils are perpetrated in the midnight,” highlighting the perceived underhandedness of the timing and manner of the alleged price hike. Similarly, Frederick Omondiale remarked, “This is purely man-made. Marketers are trying to make as much as they can from their current stock before they begin to buy from Dangote. Dangote won’t satisfy the market immediately with 25 million liters. From October, at 30 million liters/day, prices may begin to fall,” suggesting that the current situation may be influenced by market manipulations as stakeholders prepare for the upcoming Dangote refinery’s production.
Adesola Fagbemi took to the platform to express the need for collective action, tweeting, “There should be another protest,” while Otuya Kelvin voiced a dire warning, “This country is going to end like a movie on its last episode, trust me, and the rulers will be surprised.” These sentiments reflect the growing frustration among Nigerians, who feel increasingly squeezed by rising costs and declining living standards.
The price hike has also prompted questions about its justification, with Oladunjoye Olwaseun questioning, “The dollar is not rising, so why N855 for fuel? This will also affect food prices, hmm.” This concern underscores the potential ripple effects of the increase on the broader economy, particularly in terms of food inflation, which could hit the most vulnerable hardest.
The current administration has also come under fire from citizens, with Harrison Vic. Junior expressing outright anger towards those in power, stating, “Everyone under this administration, including those who hijacked power only to punish Nigerians, should be ashamed. It shall never be well with those causing Nigerians to suffer, Amii.” This sentiment reflects the deep-seated frustration that many Nigerians feel toward their leaders, whom they accuse of being out of touch with the struggles of ordinary people.
Adding a note of sarcasm, Tope Praise commented, “I, Temitope Oluwasewa Obi, will vote for Tinubu in 2027. I pray he finishes our state until we are born again from tribalism, nepotism, ‘Emi lokan’ spirit, and witchcraft. You haven’t seen anything yet.” This statement highlights the deep dissatisfaction with the current political climate, as well as the cynicism that has taken root among many Nigerians.
As the situation unfolds, there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability from NNPCL and the government. Nigerians are calling for clear communication and justifications for any price adjustments, as well as immediate measures to mitigate the impact on the populace. The potential for social unrest is palpable, with many fearing that without swift and decisive action, the situation could escalate further, leading to widespread protests and disruptions.
In the meantime, the uncertainty surrounding the fuel price hike has only added to the prevailing economic anxieties in the country. As Nigerians brace themselves for what may come next, the call for leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people is louder than ever.
