The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC) against any potential increase in fuel prices. The student association has cautioned that any attempt to raise fuel prices would be met with swift action, including disruptions to the activities of those deemed responsible.
The warning comes in the midst of a clash between the NNPC and fuel marketers, particularly the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), over the removal of subsidy on petrol. The NNPC contends that the government is no longer subsidizing petrol since the removal by President Bola Tinubu on May 29. On the other hand, petroleum marketers, represented by IPMAN, argue that with the current exchange rate, the price of a liter of petrol should have risen to N1,200
This projection has raised concerns among Nigerians, leading to fears of a potential hike in petrol prices from the current N600 per liter to N1,200 per liter. In response to these developments, NANS, in a statement signed by the factional President, Pedro Obi, expressed deep concern about the potential consequences of fuel price hikes on the already burdened student community and the Nigerian masses.
The association emphasized that any further increase in fuel prices would exacerbate the challenges faced by students and could lead to withdrawals from schools due to financial difficulties. NANS declared its commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students and ensuring their right to quality and affordable education is upheld.
The statement issued by NANS warned the Federal Government and NNPC that any attempt to increase fuel prices would be met with strong resistance. The association pledged to mobilize students and the masses to challenge such policies, expressing discontent and demanding a reversal of any detrimental decisions.
While NANS remains vigilant and ready to stand up for the rights of students, the NNPC has reassured the public that there is no imminent plan to increase the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The NNPC Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, emphasized that there is currently ample availability of PMS across the country and advised motorists not to engage in panic buying.