PETER OBI SLAMS TINUBU OVER NEW FUEL TAX

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the Federal Government’s imposition of a new 5 percent tax on refined fuel, describing the move as insensitive and untimely, particularly given the worsening economic hardship facing Nigerians.
Obi, in a strongly worded statement, said that millions of citizens are already struggling with skyrocketing transport costs, rising inflation, and dwindling purchasing power. He argued that adding a fresh layer of taxation on fuel will only worsen the situation, increase the cost of living, and push more families into poverty.
He pointed out that despite the government’s assurances that the removal of fuel subsidies would stabilize the economy, the reality on the ground has been different. Obi noted that the cost of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has risen from ₦230 to ₦450 within a short period, while fuel prices remain unstable. He accused the Tinubu administration of prioritizing revenue generation over the welfare of the people, warning that the tax will aggravate hardship rather than address fiscal challenges.
According to Obi, the government should instead focus on blocking revenue leakages, reducing the cost of governance, and channeling resources into critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He stressed that imposing more taxes without creating jobs or providing tangible benefits for citizens is both unjust and counterproductive.
The former Anambra State governor urged the Federal Government to immediately suspend the fuel tax until there are visible improvements in governance and the economy. He further challenged the Tinubu administration to be more innovative in tackling Nigeria’s fiscal crisis instead of overburdening an already struggling populace.
Obi’s statement has resonated widely among Nigerians, many of whom continue to express frustration over the rising cost of living since the removal of subsidies. The new tax, announced earlier this week, has already sparked debates about its legality and fairness.