Emmanuel Ochayi
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the recent increase in the price of petrol.
SERAP argues that the price hike by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is illegal, and unconstitutional, and exacerbates the already difficult living conditions of many Nigerians.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn an open letter dated September 7, 2024, and signed by SERAP’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation urged the president to take action within 48 days.
SERAP stressed that the government’s handling of the fuel price increase violates both domestic constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.
SERAP’s Appeal to Tinubu
“President Tinubu, we request that you use your leadership position to direct NNPCL to immediately reverse the unlawful fuel price increase,” the letter read.
SERAP emphasized that the government must protect the socio-economic rights of Nigerians and that the petrol price hike places a disproportionate burden on the people with low-income.
The price of petrol rose from N600 to N855 per liter, with reports of prices exceeding N900 in some areas. This significant increase came after fuel suppliers reportedly refused to import petroleum products due to an outstanding debt of $6 billion owed by NNPCL.
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The scarcity of fuel caused by this situation has led to widespread hardship across the country.
SERAP Warns of Legal Action
SERAP expressed concerns that if the government fails to reverse the increase, they would consider pursuing legal actions to ensure compliance.
“If we do not receive a response within 48 days, we will be forced to take appropriate legal steps in the public interest,” the letter stated.
The organisation pointed out that the increase in petrol prices is not an inevitable consequence but rather a failure of successive governments to address the root issues of corruption and mismanagement within Nigeria’s oil sector.
“Rather than introducing policies that reduce poverty and inequality, the current administration is punishing the people with low-income,” SERAP noted, adding that Nigerians have long borne the brunt of corruption in the oil industry.
Economic Hardship and Human Rights Violations
SERAP emphasised that the increase in petrol prices is intensifying poverty and inequality, making it harder for Nigerians to meet their basic needs.
The organisation argued that the price hike constitutes a violation of the fundamental right to life, which includes the right to access conditions that guarantee a dignified existence.
“The petrol price increase is causing immense hardship to the most vulnerable citizens,” SERAP stated. “The economic conditions in Nigeria are already difficult, and this price increase is pushing more people into poverty.”
The letter also criticized the government for not addressing systemic corruption in the oil sector. “The failure to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption has allowed the cycle of petrol price increases to continue, leaving Nigerians to pay the price,” the letter continued.
Government’s Legal Obligation to Act
SERAP cited sections of the Nigerian Constitution that obligate the government to ensure the well-being of its citizens.
“Section 13 of the Constitution clearly states that the government must apply the provisions of Chapter 2, which includes ensuring the maximum welfare of every citizen based on social justice and equality,” the letter read.
Under Section 16(2), SERAP noted that the government has a responsibility to harness the nation’s resources for the common good.
The organization believes that the recent petrol price hike directly contradicts this provision, as it has only worsened the socio-economic conditions of ordinary Nigerians.
Corruption and Mismanagement in the Oil Sector
SERAP attributed the petrol price hike to corruption and a lack of transparency in the oil sector. The organisation highlighted that successive governments have failed to address allegations of corruption, which has led to repeated increases in petrol prices.
“Corruption in the oil sector continues to be a major problem,” SERAP stated. “If the government does not take action to address these issues, Nigerians will continue to suffer the consequences.”
The organization urged President Tinubu to take immediate steps to investigate and prosecute those responsible for mismanagement in the oil industry, stating that this would be in line with Nigeria’s international anti-corruption obligations.
Nigerians Deserve Better
“Nigerians deserve better,” SERAP said in its letter. “They have a right to know why they are constantly paying more for fuel while corruption in the oil sector goes unchecked.”
The organisation concluded by calling on the government to prioritise the welfare of its citizens and reverse the petrol price hike.
“This increase is unjust and unnecessary. It is time for the government to take action and ensure that Nigerians are not left to bear the burden of corruption in the oil sector,” the letter concluded.
If President Tinubu does not take action, SERAP plans to explore all legal avenues to ensure that the rights of Nigerians are protected.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
