The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Nigerian government to impose a temporary cap on petrol prices to mitigate the growing cost-of-living pressures facing citizens.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the party emphasised that while global oil market volatility, driven by the ongoing Middle East crisis, contributes to rising fuel prices, the federal government must act to protect Nigerians from its domestic economic impact.
Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, argued that recent fuel hikes are exacerbated by the removal of the fuel subsidy under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that petrol prices directly affect transportation, food costs, and household survival.
“For everyday Nigerians, petrol determines the price of food, transportation and survival. When petrol rises, everything else rises with it,” the statement said.
The party also recommended targeted palliatives for low-income households and criticised the federal government’s plan to distribute 100,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion kits, arguing that the number would serve less than one percent of Nigeria’s over 11 million vehicles.
ADC raised concerns over the limited availability of CNG refuelling stations, warning that insufficient infrastructure could undermine the programme’s effectiveness.
Abdullahi urged the government to adopt a broader, sustainable energy strategy that ensures fuel affordability, protects vulnerable populations, and leverages Nigeria’s status as an oil-producing nation to reduce domestic energy costs.
“Protecting the welfare of citizens must remain the first duty of any government,” he added.
The party’s call highlights growing public anxiety over fuel price volatility and the urgent need for policy measures to shield households from escalating economic pressures.
