APM Slams Okpebholo for Comparing Nigerian Fuel Prices to UK

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has criticised Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over his comparison of petrol prices in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The party also called for the governor’s resignation, arguing that his remarks failed to reflect the differences in income levels and purchasing power between Nigerians and Britons.

Okpebholo made the comparison during an event in Edo State on Thursday, where he said he had checked the price of petrol during a recent visit to London.

According to the governor, a litre of petrol in the UK costs more than N3,000 after conversion to naira, while petrol remains cheaper in Nigeria. He used the comparison to argue that Nigerians were “doing very well” despite concerns over fuel prices and the broader cost of living.

Reacting to the statement, the APM said comparing the nominal pump prices in the two countries without considering average incomes provided an incomplete picture of affordability.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, said Nigerians were already facing significant economic pressure from rising transportation, food and other living costs.

The APM also questioned the relevance of comparing Nigeria’s fuel prices with those in the UK, noting differences in wages, public transportation systems and living costs.

The party said the average Nigerian worker had substantially less purchasing power than a worker in the UK and argued that this should be considered when assessing the impact of petrol prices on households.

It further criticised the prevailing petrol price of about N1,500 per litre, saying the cost was placing additional pressure on households, businesses and commuters.

The party also cited Libya and Iran as oil-producing countries where petrol is sold at substantially lower prices, arguing that Nigeria’s status as a major oil producer should form part of the wider discussion about fuel affordability.

The APM warned that continued increases in petrol prices could further raise transportation costs, food prices and production expenses across the economy.

It urged government officials to be more sensitive when discussing issues affecting citizens’ daily lives and called for measures that would improve purchasing power and reduce the cost of living.

The party also said Nigerians should closely examine the policies and programmes of political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.

Okpebholo has maintained that current economic reforms are moving Nigeria towards greater stability and expressed confidence that the country would eventually experience improved conditions.