The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to reverse the recent increase in the pump price of premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol. SERAP argues that the increase is “apparently illegal and unconstitutional” and violates Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
In an open letter dated September 7, 2024, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization also urged President Tinubu to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and relevant anti-corruption agencies to investigate allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the NNPC. This includes probing the $300 million bailout funds reportedly collected from the Federal Government in August 2024 and the $6 billion debt the NNPC owes suppliers, despite allegedly failing to remit oil revenues to the national treasury.
SERAP emphasized that those found guilty of corruption and mismanagement should face prosecution, and any proceeds of corruption should be fully recovered.
Key Points from SERAP’s Letter:
1. Violation of Constitutional Rights: SERAP stated that the recent petrol price hike breaches constitutional guarantees and contradicts Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. The increase has made it harder for already impoverished citizens to meet their basic needs for survival.
2. Demand for Accountability: SERAP criticized the government for failing to address corruption in the oil sector and for what it views as “punishing the poor” through policies that deepen poverty and inequality. The group argues that transparency and accountability in NNPC’s operations are necessary to prevent further unlawful price hikes.
3. Impact of the Price Hike: According to SERAP, the price of petrol has increased to N855 per liter from about N600, and in some cases, it is above N900 per liter. This hike follows a scarcity caused by suppliers’ refusal to import petroleum products due to NNPC’s $6 billion debt.
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4. Call for Immediate Action: SERAP has given the Federal Government 48 days to take the recommended measures to reverse the petrol price hike and investigate alleged corruption. If no action is taken within this period, SERAP plans to consider legal action to compel compliance in the public interest.
5. Obligation to Protect Citizens: The organization stressed that the government has a legal duty to mobilize resources to ensure the socio-economic rights of Nigerians and to protect the most vulnerable. It also emphasized the need to investigate and prosecute corruption allegations in line with the Nigerian Constitution and international anti-corruption obligations.
The letter comes amid widespread public concern over the rising cost of living in Nigeria, exacerbated by the recent increase in petrol prices and other economic policies perceived to be burdensome to the common citizen.
