Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected the Federal Government’s 30-day petrol discount, describing the measure as inadequate relief for Nigerians facing rising living costs.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, stated this in a statement issued on Thursday.
Director was reacting to the announcement by the Federal Government that petrol sold through Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited(NNPCL) outlets would attract a discount for 30 days.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, announced the measure during a briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
Oyedele said public transport operators would receive priority under the arrangement. He also clarified that the measure did not represent a return to petrol subsidy.
“We are offering a discount on petrol dispensed by NNPC Limited for the next 30 days in the first instance, with priority for public transporters nationwide,” Oyedele said.
He added that the government would simply sell the product at cost during the period.
However, the NDC dismissed the explanation and accused the Tinubu administration of offering only temporary relief after removing petrol subsidy without adequate measures to protect Nigerians.
The party described the discount as tokenism and a “Greek gift”, arguing that the policy would not address the wider economic hardship it said Nigerians had experienced since the subsidy removal.
Director questioned the fate of Nigerians who lost jobs or businesses amid higher fuel and operating costs.
He also raised concerns about Nigerians who, according to the party, suffered or died because of inadequate healthcare facilities and worsening economic conditions.
“Nigerians cannot be deceived,” the NDC publicity secretary stated, insisting that the government should address the broader consequences of its economic policies rather than introduce short-term measures.
The party also criticised the decision to prioritise NNPCL outlets, questioning whether the available stations could adequately serve Nigerians across the country.
It warned that large crowds could gather at the designated outlets if the discount attracts motorists seeking cheaper petrol.
The NDC therefore urged the government to explain how the scheme would work and how many NNPCL stations would participate.
Director further accused the All Progressives Congress(APC) administration of trying to reintroduce petrol subsidy through what he called a “backdoor” arrangement.
The government, however, has maintained that the measure is not a subsidy. Oyedele said the government would sell petrol at cost during the initial 30-day period.
The announcement forms part of a wider package of measures unveiled by the Federal Government in response to rising petrol prices and their effect on households, businesses and transport operators.
The government has also proposed a ceiling of N1,350 per litre on petrol’s ex-gantry or landing cost as part of efforts to reduce price volatility. The proposed ceiling does not represent the final pump price paid by consumers.
The NDC, however, maintained that Nigerians need more durable solutions to the economic pressures facing households and businesses.
The party also turned its criticism towards the 2027 elections, presenting Peter Obi as its preferred political alternative.
“His Excellency Peter Obi, under the NDC, will put Nigeria back on the right track. A New Nigeria is POssible with Obi,” Director stated.
He called on Nigerians to support Obi and other NDC candidates at the 2027 polls, saying the election would provide an opportunity to change the direction of the country.
