The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has criticised opposition parties for rejecting the Federal Government’s proposed 30-day petrol discount, accusing them of putting political interests ahead of public welfare.
The party’s spokesman, Seye Oladejo, made the position known in a statement on Friday, following criticism of the planned intervention by opposition figures and groups.
The Federal Government had announced that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited would forgo its retail profit margin on petrol at its outlets to offer temporary price relief, with priority given to public transport operators.
Oladejo argued that the initiative should be assessed on its potential to ease the pressure of rising transport and living costs, rather than dismissed on political grounds. He urged opposition parties to offer constructive suggestions to improve the programme.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the Obidient Movement, the Nigeria Democratic Congress and the presidential campaign organisation of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde have criticised the proposed discount, describing it as inadequate or politically motivated.
The Lagos APC also rejected claims that the arrangement amounted to a return of fuel subsidy, which was removed in May 2023. It challenged critics to examine the policy’s financing and implementation before making allegations of fiscal irresponsibility.
However, the party acknowledged that the 30-day measure would not, on its own, resolve the country’s cost-of-living challenges.
It called on the Federal Government to complement the initiative with measures to stabilise prices, improve domestic refining and fuel distribution, reduce logistics costs, support public transportation and expand access to affordable credit.
Oladejo also stressed the need for transparency, proper monitoring and clear communication about what would happen when the discount expires.
He challenged opposition parties to present practical alternatives, including how their proposals would be funded and how quickly they could deliver relief to Nigerians.
The party maintained that although concerns about the sustainability of the intervention were legitimate, the temporary nature of the programme should not be a reason to dismiss its potential benefits.
