Phrank Shaibu, the Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, challenges the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to disclose the landing cost and pricing template used to determine the current petrol price, which is below N640 per litre.
Shaibu’s call comes in response to a statement by APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, where the APC had refuted claims of a reintroduced subsidy. Highlighting the Petroleum Industry Act’s provisions, Shaibu questioned how petrol could be priced at such rates given the international crude oil price of $94 per barrel and current exchange rates. Comparing the cost of deregulated diesel to petrol, he sought clarity on the disparity.
Further, Shaibu criticized the APC for inconsistent governance, highlighting their decisions regarding former officials like Godwin Emefiele and Abdulrasheed Bawa, who were previously praised and are now detained. He emphasized the APC’s contradictory statements regarding President Bola Tinubu’s administration and actions, including claims about meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden.
Security concerns were also addressed, with Shaibu drawing attention to the interception of explosive materials, including Superpower 90, highlighting their dangerous potential if used maliciously. He praised the acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for his leadership and urged journalists and citizens to support the fight against smuggling. He warned potential smugglers, asserting the Service’s commitment to combat illegal activities.
Shaibu’s statements are a testament to growing concerns about transparency, governance, and security in Nigeria, urging officials and agencies to uphold their responsibilities and prioritize the nation’s best interests.
