NDC, Obidients Condemn FG’s 30-Day Petrol Discount

The National Democratic Coalition NDC and supporters of the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have condemned the Federal Government’s decision to introduce a 30-day discount on petrol.

The groups described the intervention as a temporary measure that would not adequately address the economic difficulties facing Nigerians, particularly the high cost of transportation and essential commodities.

The Federal Government announced the 30-day discount through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL, with the arrangement expected to enable the company to sell petrol at cost during the period.

The initiative is expected to prioritise public transport operators as part of efforts to reduce the impact of fuel costs on commuters.

The NDC and the Obidient groups, however, questioned the sustainability of the intervention, arguing that Nigerians require policies capable of providing lasting relief rather than short-term price reductions.

They said the high cost of petrol has continued to affect transportation, food prices, production and household expenses, making a longer-term approach necessary.

The groups called on the Federal Government to address the structural factors responsible for high energy and living costs, while promoting policies that would improve domestic refining, strengthen local production and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

They also urged the government to ensure transparency in the implementation of the discount and provide clear information on its beneficiaries, duration and financial implications.

The groups maintained that measures aimed at reducing economic hardship should be designed to provide sustainable benefits for households and businesses rather than temporary relief.