Editor
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (NICOSO) has threatened to stage nationwide protests against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) plan to import over 1.6 billion liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
In a statement on Tuesday, NICOSO described the move as “a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigeria’s local refining potential, cripple the economy, and worsen the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.”
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The group has issued a set of conditions for the government to address, warning that failure to meet these demands will result in mass protests starting Monday, November 18, 2024, across Abuja and other states. It called on Nigerians to demand accountability, transparency, and policies that prioritize local industries over excessive importation.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, NICOSO spokesperson Mr. Tabuko Kennedy criticized the NNPCL’s decision, highlighting its negative implications on the economy.
“Importing such an enormous volume of PMS places undue pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves, which are already strained. This will further weaken the naira, drive inflation, and make life increasingly unaffordable for Nigerians,” Kennedy stated.
He added that the policy undermines the country’s goal of achieving energy independence, diverts resources away from local refinery development, and drains national wealth.
Kennedy also raised concerns about the quality of imported fuel, alleging it is often substandard.
“This imported PMS is reportedly damaging vehicles and increasing maintenance costs for millions of Nigerians. From taxi drivers to small business owners, poor-quality fuel is wreaking havoc on livelihoods. This is unacceptable for a nation with abundant crude oil and untapped refining capacity,” he said.
The coalition emphasized that such decisions harm national interests, weaken the economy, and delay Nigeria’s progress toward energy independence. NICOSO called on Nigerians to hold the NNPCL accountable for its actions.
“Public resources must be used in the interest of the people. NICOSO remains committed to ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of our nation’s resources. Together, we can demand a better future for Nigeria,” Kennedy concluded.
The group reiterated its readiness to mobilize Nigerians to resist policies that compromise the country’s economic stability and social welfare.
