By Remilekun Awokoya
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has once again ignited the fury of Nigerians by raising petrol prices across its retail outlets, sending shockwaves through the nation.
In a move that has left many struggling to comprehend, the pump price soared from N897 to a staggering N1,030 per litre on Wednesday.
In Abuja, the nation’s capital, motorists are now grappling with the harsh reality of paying N1,030 per litre for petrol, as long queues hit filling stations in desperation.
Lagos, too, has been hit hard, with NNPCLretail outlets selling the product at N998 per litre. The price hike, the second in just one month, has thrown Nigerians into a state of anger and disbelief, with stations across Lagos now witnessing a surge of frustrated consumers forming long queues.
Social media erupted in outrage. On X (formerly Twitter), users expressed their disgust and helplessness. SizzZle didn’t mince words, declaring, “This is a level of government incompetence never seen before in our history. WtF.”
Another user, Uncle Sam, remarked, “Most preferred and most competent candidate don dey show us shege banza.”
A user, Thereal@adinarichie lamented, “These people deceived us that when Dangote refinery kicks off, gasoline and products would be cheaper.”
Caliph Dream-tease said sarcastically that, “At this rate, fuel is still cheap in Nigeria. NNPC should consider selling at ₦1,800 so more revenue can be generated to build more refineries in Malta… Sorry, I meant in Nigeria.”
Humphrey Obadjere stated, “For those celebrating the exit of NNPCL as a middleman, I hope we won’t start begging them to come back. People like Dangote can do whatever they like with the price of petrol now.”
Another user, FOI, issued a grim warning: “Nigerians should brace up… fuel price will hit N1,300 in a very short time. NNPC don comot hand from Dangote fuel… Total deregulation loading.”
Obinna shared that some Nigerians had already been paying N1,300 per litre for months. Williamstalk voiced what many were wondering, “What is the justification for this? Is Dangote still selling in dollars? What is the actual price at Dangote? This matter go long.”