The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), a prominent anti-corruption and trafficking organization, has strongly rejected the recent hike in petrol pump prices from ₦617 to ₦897 per liter. In a statement released on Wednesday, NACAT’s Operations Manager, Stanley Ugagbe, condemned the increase as an “egregious affront” to the well-being of Nigerians, who are already grappling with severe economic hardships due to previous failed policies.
Ugagbe urged Nigerians to rise up, speak out, and reject what he described as the continued imposition of “toxic economic hardships.” He expressed shock at the abrupt and significant increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), noting that some independent filling stations are now selling petrol for as much as ₦950 to ₦1,000 per liter, particularly in Abuja.
NACAT also echoed concerns raised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which pointed out that the fuel price hike contradicts the agreement reached with the government concerning the new ₦70,000 minimum wage. The NLC had agreed to the minimum wage based on assurances that PMS prices would remain stable. However, this recent increase, coming just a month after the agreement, was described as a “shocking betrayal.”
The organization further warned that the fuel price hike would lead to an immediate surge in the cost of living, exacerbating poverty and potentially fueling corruption as public servants and officials struggle to cope with the rising expenses. NACAT called for an immediate reversal of the price hike to prevent further economic instability and hardship.
