The Allied Peoples Movement has urged Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to resign over recent comments comparing Nigeria's petrol prices to those in the United Kingdom. In a statement, the party's National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, expressed concern over the governor's remarks, which seemed to downplay the struggles of Nigerians facing economic hardship. The party emphasized that the current petrol price of over N1,500 per litre is an additional burden on citizens.
The APM specifically criticized the governor's comparison of Nigeria's petrol price to the UK's average cost of about N3,000 per litre. The party argued that this comparison neglects the significant differences in income levels and purchasing power between Nigerians and British citizens. According to the APM, such a benchmark is callous and fails to consider the realities of the Nigerian economy. The party emphasized that an average Nigerian worker earns substantially less than their UK counterpart.
The APM also highlighted the differences in public transportation systems between Nigeria and the UK. In Nigeria, commuters face an informal, chaotic, and expensive transport system, whereas the UK has a structured and regulated public transport network. This disparity, the party argued, makes a direct comparison of petrol prices between the two countries misleading. Furthermore, the APM noted that Nigeria's status as an oil-producing country should be considered when discussing domestic petrol prices.
The party cited examples of oil-producing countries like Libya and Iran, where petrol is sold at significantly lower prices, ranging from N41 to N52 per litre. The APM described Governor Okpebholo's comments as "irrational and highly provocative," warning that such statements could fuel public discontent and protests. The party also expressed concern that the governor's remarks might be used to justify further increases in petrol prices.
The APM urged Nigerians to support a new political direction in the 2027 general election, identifying its presidential candidate, Engr. Seyi Makinde, as a leader who can provide humane, transparent, and efficient leadership. The party's proposed Makinde/Daura presidency and "Reset Agenda" aim to prioritize the welfare and interests of Nigerians. The APM believes that under this new leadership, Nigerians will experience a more people-oriented and efficient governance.
The APM criticized the current APC-led administration, stating that Nigerians do not deserve the level of suffering they have been subjected to, given the government's enormous resources. The party called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and support its efforts to provide a new beginning for the country. By doing so, the APM hopes to usher in a more prosperous and equitable era for Nigeria.
The party's call for Governor Okpebholo's resignation is a direct result of its dissatisfaction with his recent comments on fuel prices. The APM's concerns about the governor's remarks reflect a broader discontent with the current government's handling of the economy. As Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardship, the APM's push for a new political direction and leadership may gain traction in the coming years.
Key points
- The Allied Peoples Movement has called for Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to resign over comments comparing Nigeria's petrol prices to those in the UK.
- The party argues that the governor's comparison neglects the significant differences in income levels and purchasing power between Nigerians and British citizens.
- The APM has urged Nigerians to support its presidential candidate, Engr. Seyi Makinde, in the 2027 general election, promising a new political direction and leadership.
