Femi Falana says ‘It’s time to expose monumental fraud that characterise importation of fuel in Nigeria’ – REPORT
*As human rights lawyer raises concern on cost of living in Nigeria *Says increasing cost of petrol compounded by its scarcity causes reduced number of vehicles on nation’s roads
By OUR REPORTER
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, has raised concerns over the rising cost of living and the arbitrary hike in petrol prices, which he believes have led to fewer vehicles on the Nigerian roads currently.
According to Falana, the current situation not only affects daily life but also highlights broader economic challenges facing the country.
His comments, as published in a media report, are coming at a time when many Nigerians re grappling with the impacts of inflation and fuel scarcity, which have further strained household budgets.
In his remarks, Falana pointed out that the increasing cost of petrol, compounded by its scarcity, is directly responsible for the reduced number of vehicles on the roads.
He suggested that the situation could worsen if the underlying issues are not addressed promptly.
Falana’s statements reflect the widespread frustration among Nigerians over the state of the economy and the government’s handling of the fuel sector.
The senior lawyer also criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), calling for greater transparency in its operations.
Falana highlighted what he described as a “monumental fraud” surrounding fuel importation in Nigeria, urging for these issues to be brought to light.
He argued that the lack of accountability and transparency has allowed for systemic corruption within the fuel importation process, leading to the current crisis.
Falana’s concerns follow a recent admission by the NNPCL regarding its financial challenges.
The corporation disclosed through a statement on its official social media handle that it faces substantial debt to suppliers, which is posing a risk to sustainable fuel supply.
The admission has raised eyebrows and sparked debate over the financial management and operational efficiency of the state-run oil company.
The NNPCL’s statement pointed to a range of financial pressures that are threatening its ability to maintain stable fuel supplies.
According to the corporation, the debt owed to suppliers has created a significant strain on its operations.
This acknowledgment of financial instability has added to the growing concern about the future of Nigeria’s fuel supply chain and its broader economic implications.
He said, “So what has changed? This is the time to expose the monumental fraud that has characterized the importation of fuel.”
