SERAP's-48-Hour-Ultimatum-to-President-Tinubu-Over-Fuel-Price-Hike

SERAP's 48-Hour Ultimatum to President Tinubu Over Fuel Price Hike

Wisdom Tide
14/09/2024

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to reverse the recent increase in the price of premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. This demand is part of a broader public outcry as Nigerians grapple with the economic impact of the price hike, which has worsened the already precarious living conditions for many.

In an open letter dated September 7, 2024, SERAP expressed its concerns, urging President Tinubu to leverage his leadership and influence to compel the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to immediately reverse the hike. SERAP's Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, who signed the letter, emphasized that the increase in fuel prices directly contradicts Nigeria’s constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.

Violation of Constitutional and Human Rights

SERAP argued that the rise in fuel prices infringes on the fundamental rights of Nigerians, as enshrined in the country's constitution and various international human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory. The organization stated that the price increase disproportionately affects the poor, exacerbating inequality and deepening the economic challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

“The recent surge in petrol prices is a direct violation of the economic and social rights guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution. It further infringes upon the country’s international obligations, especially with respect to protecting citizens from poverty and inequality,” the letter stated. SERAP stressed that the government should prioritize addressing the root causes of economic hardship rather than imposing policies that disproportionately harm the poor.

Calls for Accountability and Investigation

Beyond the call to reverse the price hike, SERAP also demanded accountability within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). The organization urged President Tinubu to investigate alleged corruption and mismanagement within the NNPC, which it claims are partly responsible for the current economic situation.

“If there is sufficient evidence of corruption or mismanagement, those responsible should be held accountable, and the proceeds of such corruption must be fully recovered. The Nigerian people deserve transparency and accountability from their government, especially in sectors as critical as energy and petroleum,” SERAP stated.

The letter called for legal action against any officials found guilty of corrupt practices, emphasizing that such actions would restore public confidence in the government’s ability to manage national resources effectively.

Impact on Poverty and Inequality

One of SERAP’s primary concerns is the impact of the fuel price increase on poverty and inequality. The organization pointed out that many Nigerians, particularly those in lower-income brackets, are already struggling with rising costs of living, unemployment, and inadequate social services. The fuel price hike, SERAP noted, adds yet another layer of hardship to an already fragile economic environment.

“Instead of enacting policies that alleviate poverty and address inequality, your administration appears to be placing an additional burden on the poor by allowing this fuel price increase,” the letter reads. SERAP urged President Tinubu to reconsider his administration’s economic strategies and prioritize the welfare of the most vulnerable citizens.

Conclusion: A Call for Immediate Action

SERAP concluded its letter by stressing the urgency of the situation. The organization gave the government a 48-hour deadline to act, warning that failure to address the concerns could lead to legal action. The ultimatum reflects the growing frustration among Nigerians and the demand for decisive leadership in addressing the country’s economic challenges.

“The time for action is now. Nigerians are looking to you for relief from the hardships caused by this fuel price hike. We trust that you will take the necessary steps to ensure that the rights and well-being of the people are safeguarded,” SERAP urged.

As the 48-hour deadline looms, all eyes are on President Tinubu and his administration to see how they will respond to the demands, as Nigerians continue to struggle with the economic consequences of the price increase.