Protesters took to the streets in Abuja, demanding an end to the fuel crisis and a reduction in petrol prices. They also called for the dismissal of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, due to the lingering fuel scarcity.
The protest was sparked by the company’s statement that its substantial debt to suppliers is endangering the sustainable fuel supply. The protesters, armed with banners, expressed frustration with Kyari’s tenure, marked by a dismal scorecard that raises more questions than answers.
The Convener of the Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organisations, Aminu Abbas, urged President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and those in power to take action, saying, “Show us that you stand with the people, not those who profit from our misery. Mr. Kyari must be shown the way out, and the NNPCL must be reformed to serve the interests of all Nigerians. We will not be silenced.”
The protest highlights the growing discontent among Nigerians over the fuel crisis, which has caused untold hardship and disrupted essential services. The protesters’ demands for accountability and reform in the NNPCL resonate with the broader population, who are tired of the fuel scarcity and stories about why refineries are not working.
The government’s response to the protest and the fuel crisis will be crucial in addressing the concerns of Nigerians and restoring trust in the administration. The protesters’ call for action and reform echoes the sentiments of many Nigerians, who are eager for a solution to the fuel crisis and a more accountable government.
