Human rights advocate Femi Falana (SAN) is urging the Federal Government to reevaluate its fuel subsidy removal policy following allegations of continued payments. Despite President Bola Tinubu's declaration ending the subsidy era upon his inauguration, recent assertions from the World Bank and Robert Dickerman, CEO of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, suggest otherwise.
Falana, in a statement issued on Sunday, highlighted the need for the government to address these claims and reconsider the policy. He pointed out the absence of provisions for fuel subsidy in the 2023 and 2024 Appropriation Acts, emphasizing the urgency for transparency regarding fuel importation.
Notably, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited has not refuted the allegation of reinstated fuel subsidies. Falana called for swift clarification from the government to dispel the opacity surrounding fuel importation.
The administration's shift from proclaiming subsidy removal to spending a significant sum on "under-recovery" over eight years raises concerns. Falana questions the logic of enduring hardship caused by subsidy removal, particularly if substantial amounts are still being spent on it monthly.
In light of these developments, Falana advocates for a review of the subsidy policy in the best interest of Nigerians. If the government is indeed allocating considerable funds to fuel subsidies, it underscores the necessity for a reassessment to alleviate the burdens on the populace.
