Baptists Conference, Shehu Sani, Hayab Others React To Hike In Price Of Petrol

The recent increase in the pump price of petrol has continue to receive reactions and criticism from some notable organisations and some prominent Nigerians, saying the development would further compound the already difficult economic situation in the country.

They therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take swift and proactive action to ease the difficult and severe economic weight on Nigerians.

One of the organisations, is the Nigerian Baptist Ministers Conference that rose from its 64th edition in Kaduna on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, decrying the latest petrol pump price increase.

President of the Baptist Conference, Rev. Israel Akanji, who stated the position of the Conference, called on the Federal Government to put in place necessary and adequate relief measures to address the excruciating economic hardship being faced by Nigerians.

Akanji particularly called on the government to slow the pace of its reforms to reduce the burden on citizens, stressing that th high cost of fuel in an oil producing country, would certainly drive up the cost of essential goods like food, housing, and education.

Also speaking on the development, former chairman of the Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Joseph John Hayab, lamented the severe impact of recent fuel price hikes on everyday life.

Hayab specifically expressed concerns over the lingering threat of insecurity in the country, in spite of some progress against terrorism and banditry and therefore urged the government to intensify efforts to restore peace and security by eradicating the remaining terrorists and bandits across the nation.

In his own comment, former federal legislator, Senator Shehu Sani lamented the prevailing economic challenges brought about by the reforms introduced by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and therefore urged those in positions of authority to lead by example in sharing in the sacrifices they have imposed on Nigerians

Sani also said that the burden of the administration’s economic reforms is being borne disproportionately by poor Nigerians, saying; “we are a nation of 224 million people facing serious economic challenges”.

In the words of Sani; “Leaders, whether in the presidency, ministries, or the legislature, must lead by example and make personal sacrifices for the greater good. Nigerians, especially low income earners have contributed to grapple with the incessant fuel price hike and the crushing effects of broader economic challenges”.