ABUJA: The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticised the Federal Government’s 30-day petrol discount initiative at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) retail stations, describing the policy as “tokenism and deceit” and alleging that it amounts to a return of fuel subsidy through the backdoor.
The party’s position comes amid continuing concerns over the cost of living, fuel prices and the economic difficulties facing households and businesses following the removal of petrol subsidies by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC questioned the rationale behind the temporary discount, arguing that the government’s latest intervention raises concerns about the consistency of its fuel pricing policy.
According to the party, the 30-day offer appears to contradict the government’s position on subsidy removal, which has been a central component of its economic reform programme.
The opposition party also questioned whether NNPC retail outlets could adequately accommodate the needs of millions of Nigerians expected to benefit from the initiative.
It warned that the programme could lead to long queues, congestion and potential safety risks at filling stations if the government failed to establish effective arrangements for distributing the discounted petrol.
The NDC argued that a temporary intervention would not adequately address the broader economic challenges confronting Nigerians, particularly the rising cost of transportation and the pressure of higher living expenses on low-income households.
The party maintained that Nigerians require sustainable policies capable of reducing the cost of living rather than short-term measures that provide only limited relief.
The NDC further blamed the Tinubu administration for what it described as worsening economic hardship since the removal of fuel subsidies.
It alleged that the economic situation had contributed to job losses, business closures and increased pressure on the healthcare system, while many households continued to struggle with rising expenses.
However, these claims represent the party’s assessment of the administration’s economic policies.
The Federal Government has defended its economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidies, as necessary measures aimed at addressing fiscal pressures and restructuring the economy.
The latest disagreement highlights the continuing political debate over whether the government’s economic policies are delivering sufficient relief to ordinary Nigerians.
The party also called on Nigerians to support Peter Obi and other NDC candidates in the January 15, 2027 elections, presenting its position as part of a broader push for political change.
The appeal signals the party’s intention to make economic hardship, fuel pricing and the cost-of-living important issues in the run-up to the elections.
The Federal Government, meanwhile, has described the 30-day measure as a petrol discount rather than a return to the fuel subsidy regime.
Public transport operators have reportedly been given priority under the initiative, although the government’s approach has drawn criticism from the NDC over its scope, implementation and long-term impact.
The controversy comes as Nigerians continue to assess the effects of the government’s economic reforms and demand measures that can make transportation, food and other essential services more affordable.
Whether the temporary petrol discount will provide meaningful relief to consumers remains a key question as the government proceeds with the initiative.
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