The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the latest increase in petrol prices.
The opposition party spoke after petrol prices rose to as much as ₦1,470 per litre.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said the increase was adding to the financial pressure on Nigerian households.
ADC raises concern over petrol prices
The party said the impact of higher petrol prices goes beyond transportation.
According to the ADC, fuel costs also affect food, electricity, education and other essential expenses.
The party described the situation as a growing burden for families, workers and businesses.
“President Tinubu has turned the petrol pump into an instrument of punishment for everyday Nigerians,” the ADC said.
The party argued that higher fuel prices eventually affect many areas of the economy.
School fees also rising
The ADC also referred to reports of private schools increasing their fees by between 30 and 40 per cent.
The party linked the increases to the wider rise in operating costs.
It noted that schools are also facing higher expenses for electricity, fuel, rent, salaries and taxes.
The ADC said it did not blame school owners for increasing fees.
Instead, it argued that families are struggling because household incomes have not increased at the same pace as living costs.
“Parents are not earning 40 per cent more,” the party said.
ADC criticises economic policies
The opposition party also criticised the Federal Government’s economic reforms.
It argued that Nigerians are being asked to make greater sacrifices while the cost of basic needs continues to rise.
The ADC claimed that some families are now struggling to pay for food, education and healthcare.
It also alleged that some businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to remain open.
The party described the situation as evidence that economic reforms must consider their effect on ordinary Nigerians.
2027 campaign message
The ADC also connected the rising cost of living to the 2027 presidential election.
The party said its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, would pursue policies aimed at reducing petrol costs.
It said Atiku supports restoring a form of petrol subsidy tied to domestic fuel production.
According to the ADC, the policy would help reduce pressure on transportation, food prices and production costs.
The party said its proposed approach would place greater emphasis on the welfare of Nigerians.
