Protests erupted in parts of Abuja yesterday as Nigerians gathered to demonstrate against rising fuel costs and mounting economic challenges.
Led by Abdullahi Bilal of the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal, Barrister Napoleon Otache, and Olayemi Isaac from Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN), the demonstrators demanded urgent action to address what they termed “failed leadership” in managing the country’s oil sector.
Protesters voiced grievances over skyrocketing fuel prices and the persistent queues at filling stations, which they argued have exacerbated inflation and plunged millions into poverty.
The group condemned the existing fuel subsidy regime, claiming it has only enriched a select few while the majority suffer under high costs. They advocated for full deregulation of the oil sector to promote transparency, competition, and fair pricing.
Protesters also decried the importation of adulterated fuel, which they described as a corrupt practice harmful to citizens and businesses. They called for an immediate halt to these imports and demanded accountability for those responsible, questioning how substandard fuel continues to enter the country despite quality control assurances.
Additionally, the group criticized the unfulfilled promise of the Dangote Refinery to resolve Nigeria’s fuel crisis, expressing frustration over the billions spent on refinery development and refurbishments that have yet to yield results. They argued that despite these investments, fuel shortages persist, forcing Nigeria to rely on costly imports even as an oil-producing nation.
Highlighting the economic impact of the fuel crisis, protesters cited inflation exceeding 24 percent and a 200 percent increase in fuel prices, both of which they said are driving poverty nationwide.
The group called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene by overhauling leadership in the oil sector, enforcing accountability, and prioritizing citizens’ needs. They pledged to continue mobilizing until their demands for reform and transparency are met.
Speaking to journalists, Abdullahi Bilal stated: “The Two Million Man March is a united voice for every citizen betrayed by a system that enriches a few at the expense of many. We call for the immediate resignation of the current leadership in the oil sector, whose management has failed Nigerians.”
He continued, “Under their watch, fuel prices have soared without any consideration for the devastating impact on the people. We endure fuel scarcity while substandard fuel is imported, causing further hardship. We demand the complete removal of the fraudulent fuel subsidy regime and a shift to full deregulation to ensure transparency, competition, and fairness in our oil sector.”
He also condemned the importation of substandard fuel, saying, “This harmful practice must end immediately. Those responsible must be held accountable for the damage caused to our vehicles, businesses, and livelihoods.”
Bilal added, “Nigerians have suffered long enough, queuing for hours just to access fuel. We demand a sustainable solution to this fuel scarcity crisis—no more excuses, no more delays. We deserve better.”
Addressing the ongoing refinery issues, he remarked, “The much-anticipated refinery has failed to deliver on its promises. Inflation has reached unprecedented levels, and fuel prices have risen by over 200 percent, pushing millions into deeper poverty.”
To the government, Bilal concluded, “Enough is enough. Nigerians will not stand by while the oil cabal thrives at the nation’s expense. We demand accountability, and we demand it now.”
Supporting Bilal’s call, Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac emphasized, “This economic sabotage has led to endless fuel queues, soaring prices, and widespread disruptions in Nigerians’ lives. We demand transparency and accountability from all involved. We want answers on how substandard fuel continues to enter the country despite quality control assurances.”
