The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has demanded the resignation of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over his recent comment on petrol prices in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. In a statement, the party's National Publicity Secretary, Mr Abubakar Yusuf, condemned Okpebholo's comparison of Nigeria's N1,500 per litre petrol price to the UK's N3,000 per litre, describing it as reckless and irresponsible.
The APM argued that Okpebholo's comparison failed to consider the significant disparity in income and purchasing power between Nigerians and Britons. The party noted that Nigerian workers earn substantially less than their counterparts in the UK, making it difficult for citizens to afford the current petrol price. This, Yusuf stated, showed a lack of empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by Nigerians.
Furthermore, the APM criticized Okpebholo's comparison by highlighting the differences in public transportation systems between the two countries. The party pointed out that the UK has a more structured and regulated transport system, whereas Nigerians rely heavily on an expensive and poorly organized transport system. This, they argued, made it unfair to compare petrol prices without considering these factors.
The APM also drew attention to petrol prices in other oil-producing countries, citing Libya and Iran as examples where petrol is sold at significantly lower prices. The party expressed concern that attempts to justify further increases in petrol prices could heighten public frustration and trigger protests. They warned that Nigerians should remain vigilant against policies that would further raise the cost of living.
The party expressed concern that Okpebholo's comment could be used to prepare the ground for another increase in petrol prices. They urged Nigerians to be cautious and prepare for the 2027 presidential election, where they will have the opportunity to choose a different direction for the country. The APM's presidential candidate, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and his running mate, Alhaji Lawal Daura, have promised to prioritize citizens' welfare under their Reset Agenda.
The APM's call for Okpebholo's resignation comes as Nigerians continue to struggle with the rising cost of living. The party urged Nigerians to support its platform, promising that the country's resources could be better managed to improve living standards and deliver more effective governance. By doing so, they believe that Nigeria can take a different path and create a more prosperous future for its citizens.
In conclusion, the APM's demand for Okpebholo's resignation reflects the growing concerns about the government's handling of petrol prices and the overall cost of living in Nigeria. As the country prepares for the 2027 presidential election, parties like the APM are positioning themselves as alternatives to the current administration, promising to prioritize citizens' welfare and manage the country's resources more effectively.
Key points
- The Allied Peoples Movement has called for Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo to resign over his comment comparing petrol prices in Nigeria and the UK.
- The party argues that Okpebholo's comparison failed to consider the significant disparity in income and purchasing power between Nigerians and Britons.
- The APM has promised to prioritize citizens' welfare under its Reset Agenda, with its presidential candidate Engr. Seyi Makinde and running mate Alhaji Lawal Daura.
