The Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council, NENYLC, has described as unacceptable a situation where Nigerians are suffering in the midst of plenty.
This comes as Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), announced increased crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
Some leadership changes were also announced by the NNPCL on Wednesday, but the youth groups said it was not enough.
In a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, they demanded the immediate sack of the GMD/CEO of the NNPCL, Mr. Mele Kyari.
They said it was sad that Nigerians have continued to face economic hardships owing to high pump price of petrol despite the reported drop at the international market.
The group said Kyari had failed to alleviate the financial strain being imposed on citizens due to soaring fuel costs.
In the statement signed by their President General, Comrade Terry Obieh and Organizing Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Zopmal, the youth leaders said “the current high cost of petrol is impacting every aspect of Nigerian society, leading to increased transportation fares, inflated food prices, and escalated costs of basic goods and services.
“These hardships affect Nigeria’s youth, students, low-income earners, and vulnerable groups, further widening the economic gap and stalling progress for the nation’s development.
“We have stated our position clearly that the unrelenting rise in pump prices has placed an unbearable burden on Nigerians.
“Many families are struggling to make ends meet, businesses are at risk of closure, and the cost of living is pushing more Nigerians below the poverty line. This is unacceptable in a country endowed with abundant natural resources.”
They urged the Federal Government “to adopt policies that ensure affordable and accessible fuel for all Nigerians.
“While doing that, we also strongly suggest an immediate review of the pricing structure, subsidies, and efficient management practices, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and prioritising the welfare of citizens.
“Additionally, we advocate for alternative energy investments to diversify Nigeria’s energy landscape and reduce reliance on costly fossil fuels.
“Ensuring that Nigerians have access to affordable fuel is not just an economic obligation, it’s a matter of social justice and national stability.
“We call on the Federal Government to prioritise the welfare of citizens over profit margins and to take concrete steps towards reducing the pump prices to the barest minimum. It is imperative for the stability, unity, and prosperity of our nation.”
The Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council restated its commitment to advocating for the interests of all ethnic nationalities across the country, vowing that it would continue “to hold public institutions accountable in safeguarding the well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians.”
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