Peter Obi Slams New 5% Fuel Tax, Says Government Deepening Citizens’ Hardship

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized the federal government over the introduction of a 5% tax on refined fossil fuel sales, including petrol and diesel.

In a post on his official X handle late Wednesday, the former Anambra State governor said the policy adds to the suffering of Nigerians instead of alleviating it. He argued that the levy should have been delayed until citizens begin to experience real benefits from President Bola Tinubu’s promises.

“Nigerians are now forced to pay a 5% tax on fuel and diesel at a time when many can barely afford transportation costs,” Obi wrote, pointing out that the government had recently celebrated meeting its revenue targets for the year.

He also faulted the rising cost of compressed natural gas (CNG), which has doubled from about ₦230 to ₦450 despite earlier assurances of subsidies. According to him, such revenues should be directed towards education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, rather than imposing new levies on struggling citizens.

“Leadership is about easing suffering, showing care, and demonstrating compassion—not compounding people’s burdens,” Obi stressed.