Barrister Abiodun Aribisala, Founder and CEO of the Aribisala Care Foundation, an international tax consultant, and a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ijesa North and Osun State, has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action in response to the surging price of petroleum, which has reached ₦900 per liter in some areas.
In a statement, Barrister Aribisala appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as Minister of Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ekperikpe Ekpo, urging them to intervene and bring relief to Nigerians who are struggling with the escalating cost of fuel.
Aribisala, a seasoned community advocate, emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to stabilize the market and alleviate the burden on citizens. “The current situation is unsustainable,” he stated, expressing concern over the potential impact of the fuel price hike on the economy and the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Barrister Aribisala also highlighted the cascading effects of the rising fuel prices on other sectors of the economy, particularly transportation and food production. “When fuel prices soar, the cost of transportation inevitably increases, leading to higher prices for goods and services. This creates a ripple effect that disproportionately affects the most vulnerable segments of our society,” he explained.
The APC stalwart further called on the government to explore alternative solutions, such as subsidies or tax relief, to cushion the impact on the populace. “While we understand the complexities of global oil markets, it is crucial that the government prioritizes the well-being of its citizens by implementing measures that will mitigate the adverse effects of these price hikes,” Aribisala added.
He also suggested that the Federal Government engage in transparent dialogue with stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to find a sustainable solution to the fuel crisis. According to him, “A collaborative approach involving key industry players, labor unions, and civil society organizations will help ensure that any policy decisions made are in the best interest of the nation.”
Barrister Aribisala did not shy away from addressing the potential long-term consequences if the situation remains unaddressed. He warned that continued inaction could lead to social unrest and a further decline in the standard of living. “The government must act swiftly to avoid a scenario where Nigerians are pushed to the brink due to the unaffordable cost of basic necessities,” he cautioned.
In conclusion, Aribisala reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerians, particularly those in Ijesa North and Osun State. He expressed hope that the Federal Government would heed his call and take decisive action to restore stability to the fuel market, thereby alleviating the hardships faced by millions of Nigerians.
