SERAP gives Tinubu ultimatum to reverse unlawful petrol price hike, investigate NNPC
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) is calling on President Bola Tinubu to immediately reverse the recent illegal hike in petrol prices and to investigate allegations of corruption and mismanagement at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
SERAP is demanding that Tinubu use his leadership position to address these issues within 48 hours.
In an open letter dated September 7, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization criticized the recent increase in petrol prices as a violation of constitutional and international human rights obligations.
SERAP is also urging Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and other anti-corruption agencies to probe the spending of $300 million in bailout funds and the $6 billion debt owed by NNPC suppliers.
SERAP stated, “The increase in petrol prices represents a serious breach of constitutional guarantees and international human rights commitments. Nigerians have long been denied justice and are forced to suffer due to corruption in the oil sector.”
The letter highlights the severe impact of the price hike on impoverished citizens, saying, “Rather than addressing poverty and inequality, your government appears to be punishing the poor. The recent increase in petrol prices has made it even harder for struggling families to meet their basic needs.”
SERAP further criticized the government for its failure to address corruption and mismanagement in the oil sector, contributing to the unlawful price increases. They are calling for accountability and transparency, stating, “The arbitrary increase in petrol prices places an undue burden on the most vulnerable sectors of society, jeopardizing their living conditions and worsening socioeconomic conditions.”
The organization is also concerned about the broader implications of the price hike, noting that it exacerbates poverty and limits Nigerians’ ability to participate in democratic processes. SERAP is demanding that the government act swiftly to reverse the price increase and hold those responsible for corruption accountable.
“If our demands are not met within 48 hours, SERAP will consider taking legal actions to ensure that the government complies with our request in the public interest,” the letter warns.
In summary, SERAP is urging President Tinubu to address the petrol price hike and investigate NNPC’s financial management to protect Nigerians’ rights and ensure transparency and accountability in the oil sector.
