By Our Correspondent
A presidential aide to Bola Ahmed Tinubu has criticised comments made by former presidential candidate Peter Obi regarding the recent increase in petrol prices in Nigeria, stating that the issue reflects global market realities rather than a problem specific to the country.
The exchange followed Obi’s remarks expressing concern over the steady rise in fuel prices across Nigeria. He linked the situation to poor economic planning and a lack of preparedness for global market shocks. According to him, countries with strong economic strategies usually maintain strategic petroleum reserves and other measures that help reduce the impact of sudden changes in international oil prices.
Obi also argued that Nigeria’s vulnerability to external shocks reflects years of limited long-term planning in the energy sector. He suggested that if the country had developed adequate reserves and improved its refining capacity, it would be better positioned to manage disruptions that affect fuel supply and pricing.
In response, Tinubu’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, dismissed the criticism and said the rise in petrol prices is mainly influenced by global economic forces. He noted that many countries around the world are experiencing similar fuel price pressures due to developments in the international oil market.
Olusegun explained that Nigeria’s situation is also affected by structural challenges, including limited domestic refining capacity, dependence on imported refined petroleum products, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. He added that blaming the current fuel price increase solely on poor planning does not fully explain the complexity of the issue.
The discussion comes amid ongoing reactions to fuel pricing reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, particularly after the removal of petrol subsidies. While supporters of the policy say it is necessary for economic stability, critics have raised concerns about its effect on the cost of living for many Nigerians.
The disagreement between the two political figures reflects continuing public debate about energy policy, economic management, and how Nigeria can better manage the effects of changes in the global oil market.
