The Nigeria Democratic Congress and the Obidient Movement have condemned the Federal Government’s 30-day petrol discount through Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited stations, describing the measure as temporary and inadequate to address the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
The reactions followed the announcement by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, that the government would offer a discount on petrol sold through NNPC stations for an initial 30 days, with priority given to public transport operators. The government said the arrangement was not a return to fuel subsidy but a decision to sell petrol at cost during the period.
The Obidient Movement, through its Director of Media and Communications, Onyeka Dike, questioned why the government waited several years before introducing measures to reduce the impact of high fuel prices.
Dike argued that Nigerians needed sustained reductions in the cost of fuel, food and education rather than temporary relief. He also questioned whether the announcement was connected to preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Similarly, the NDC described the initiative as tokenism and questioned whether limiting the discount to NNPC stations would adequately serve Nigerians across the country.
The party also raised concerns about possible congestion at filling stations and argued that the measure would not reverse the wider economic effects of the removal of petrol subsidy.
The Federal Government has maintained that the discount is part of a broader package aimed at cushioning the effects of rising fuel and transportation costs. It is also negotiating a N1,350 per litre ceiling on petrol’s ex-gantry or landing cost, subject to monthly reviews.
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