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Breaking: Major Protest in Abuja Over Fuel Shortages, Rising Food Prices, and Economic Hardship.
On Monday in Abuja, hundreds of Nigerians staged a significant protest to express their anger over rising fuel prices, ongoing shortages, and worsening economic conditions. The demonstration was led by Abdullahi Bilal of the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal, alongside Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac from the Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN). ...(CONTINUE READING)
They called for immediate reforms in the oil sector, criticizing the government’s failure to effectively manage Nigeria’s oil resources.The protesters highlighted the damaging impact of soaring fuel prices and persistent long queues at gas stations, arguing that these issues are driving inflation and pushing more Nigerians into poverty.
They denounced the current fuel subsidy, claiming it primarily benefits a privileged few while leaving the majority struggling with high costs.They demanded a complete deregulation of the oil sector to enhance transparency, encourage competition, and establish fair pricing. The group also condemned the ongoing importation of low-quality fuel, labeling it a corrupt practice that harms vehicles and businesses, ultimately disrupting everyday life for the public.
Moreover, the protesters expressed disappointment over the unfulfilled promise of the Dangote Refinery to eliminate Nigeria’s dependency on fuel imports, despite significant investments in refinery development and infrastructure improvements.They argued that as an oil-producing country, Nigeria should not be experiencing such severe fuel shortages. Highlighting the economic ramifications of the fuel crisis, the protesters pointed to inflation rates exceeding 24% and a 200% increase in fuel prices, which they believe is driving more people into poverty.
They called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the needs of citizens by reforming leadership within the oil sector and ensuring better accountability. In a statement to the media, Abdullahi Bilal articulated the protesters’ frustrations, stating, “This Two Million Man March represents the voices of Nigerians who feel let down by a system that benefits a few at the expense of the many. We demand the resignation of those in charge of the oil sector for failing to manage fuel prices and ensure a consistent supply.
The subsidy system must be abolished, as it only enriches a select group. Nigerians deserve full deregulation to foster fairness and competition in the oil industry.”Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac echoed these concerns, calling for an end to fuel shortages and immediate accountability for the importation of substandard fuel, despite assurances of quality control. They vowed to persist with their protests until significant changes are implemented to address these enduring issues.