Nigerians have taken to the streets of Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Monday protesting lingering fuel scarcity in the country.
The protesters also demand the immediate dismissal of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over the lingering fuel scarcity.
The protest came on the heels of the Nigerian NNPCL’s confession that its substantial debt to suppliers is endangering the sustainable fuel supply.
The protesters held placards with messages such as “We are tired of fuel scarcity and explanations for non-functioning refineries,” “No direction under Kyari,” and “We want accountability in the affairs of NNPC.” They voiced their concerns about Kyari’s leadership, stating that his tenure has led to unanswered questions and a poor track record.
Convener of the Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organizations, Aminu Abbas while addressing newsmen at Unity Fountain after the rally in Abuja said, “To President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and all those in positions of power, we say the time to act is now. Show us that you stand with the people, not those who profit from our misery. Mr Kyari must be shown the way out, and the NNPCL must be reformed to serve the interests of all Nigerians. We will not be silenced.
“The fuel scarcity we endure today is not just a mere inconvenience; it is a calculated perpetuation of suffering. Under Mr Kyari’s leadership, the situation has gone from bad to worse, with no end in sight. What has he done to alleviate this crisis? It is clear he seems intent on maintaining a status quo that benefits only a select few while the masses suffer.
“Why do we, the people, have to endure endless queues, inflated prices, and the daily uncertainty of whether we can fuel our vehicles or power our homes? The answer lies in the gross incompetence and mismanagement that have become the hallmarks of Mr. Kyari’s leadership.”
