The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the recent increase in the price of petrol.
The group described the hike as unlawful and unconstitutional.
SERAP is urging the president to investigate the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
In an open letter to the president on Saturday, SERAP gave him a 48-hour ultimatum to address the issues or face legal action.
The letter, signed by SERAP’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, highlighted the serious economic impact of the petrol price increase on Nigerians.
It also raised concerns over corruption within the NNPCL and its failure to remit funds to the government.
SERAP said, “The increase in petrol price constitutes a fundamental breach of constitutional guarantees and the country’s international human rights obligations.”
The organisation argued that the recent increase has worsened the economic conditions for millions of Nigerians, particularly the poor.
According to SERAP, many citizens are struggling to meet their basic needs because of the hike in petrol prices.
The price of petrol at NNPCL outlets reportedly increased to N855 per litre, with some places selling it at over N900.
This marks a significant jump from around N600 per litre, further compounding the economic crisis faced by the average Nigerian.
The group linked the hike to the NNPCL’s inability to resolve its $6 billion debt to petroleum suppliers, which led to a scarcity of petrol in the country.
SERAP expressed concern that the government appears to be punishing the poor by failing to address corruption and inefficiencies within the oil sector.
It said, “Rather than pursuing public policies to address the growing poverty and inequality in the country, your government seems to be punishing the poor.”
The letter emphasized that addressing corruption within the oil sector would benefit the public and prevent further unlawful increases in fuel prices.
SERAP also cited reports that the NNPCL has failed to remit $2.04 billion and N164 billion in oil revenues to the public treasury, as highlighted in a 2020 report by the Auditor-General of the Federation.
The group argued that holding the NNPCL accountable for alleged corruption and mismanagement is in the public’s interest.
SERAP’s letter stressed the importance of ensuring justice for Nigerians who are suffering because of corruption in the oil sector.
It also called for the prosecution of any individuals or groups found responsible for corruption or mismanagement within the NNPCL.
SERAP demanded that proceeds from any corruption found within the company should be recovered and returned to the public treasury.
The letter read: “Suspected perpetrators of alleged corruption and mismanagement in the NNPC should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any proceeds of corruption should be fully recovered.”
The recent increase in petrol prices has added to the already difficult economic conditions in Nigeria.
Millions of Nigerians rely on petrol for transportation, electricity generation, and other essential services.
The sharp rise in prices is affecting the cost of living for citizens, particularly those in lower-income brackets.
SERAP’s letter to President Tinubu highlighted the urgent need for the government to protect the most vulnerable citizens from the effects of these price increases.
It stated: “The increase is causing immense hardship to those less well-off. We are concerned that as the economic situation in Nigeria deteriorates, the increase in petrol price is pushing people further into poverty.”
The group warned that the government’s failure to address the economic impact of rising fuel prices could lead to social unrest.
Nigerians have long been frustrated by the high cost of petrol, which is often linked to corruption and inefficiencies in the oil sector.
SERAP reminded the government of its legal obligation to protect the socio-economic rights of Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable.
In addition to reversing the petrol price increase, SERAP is calling for a full investigation into the NNPCL’s management of funds and operations.
The organisation urged President Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, and other relevant agencies to probe the NNPCL.
It also demanded that the investigation include the NNPCL’s reported failure to remit billions in oil revenue to the government.
According to SERAP, any individuals found guilty of mismanagement or corruption within the NNPCL should be prosecuted and the proceeds of their corruption recovered.
The letter further stated that the NNPCL’s alleged mishandling of $300 million in bailout funds provided by the federal government in August 2024 should also be scrutinized.
It said: “Your government also has the legal obligations to probe and prosecute allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the NNPC, and to ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims of corruption.”
SERAP argued that probing and prosecuting corruption in the NNPCL is consistent with Nigeria’s Constitution and international obligations to fight corruption.
The group also pointed out that the NNPCL’s corruption and mismanagement have long contributed to fuel shortages and price hikes, which have hurt the average Nigerian.
The investigation, SERAP believes, would help restore trust in the oil sector and ensure that future increases in petrol prices are fair and justified.
If the government does not act within that time frame, the organisation said it would consider taking legal action to compel the administration to address the issues raised.
SERAP is known for its advocacy on issues related to corruption, accountability, and human rights in Nigeria.
The group has previously taken legal action against the government and its agencies when it believes they have failed to uphold constitutional and human rights obligations.
The letter concluded: “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter.
“If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
