Obi Criticizes Petrol Discount Policy as Economic Misstep

Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned the federal government's 30-day petrol discount initiative, calling it a reactive measure that neglects widespread economic hardship among Nigerians.

Obi stated the policy substitutes political appearances for sound economic planning, claiming the administration overlooked critical assessments of its economic reforms before implementing the discount.

He noted the government removed petrol subsidies on May 29, 2023, without consulting citizens or evaluating economic impacts, which Obi linked to rising inflation and severe price hikes across sectors.

Obi emphasized the discount represents less than five percent of fuel costs, arguing it fails to address the inflationary pressures that have strained household budgets nationwide.

The candidate also warned that such policies have exacerbated economic instability, causing unbearable price increases and adverse consequences for ordinary Nigerians.