Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has come under criticism after saying Nigerians should consider themselves fortunate that petrol sells for between N1,400 and N1,500 per litre, citing higher prices in the United Kingdom.
Okpebholo made the remarks while speaking at the “Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road” event in Edo State. He said he recently bought petrol in London with a friend to compare prices and found that, after conversion, a litre cost more than N3,000.
The governor argued that the economic reforms introduced by the Federal Government were difficult but necessary to stabilise the economy. He likened the reforms to an aircraft taking off, saying Nigerians would begin to enjoy the benefits once the economy reached a “cruising level.”
His comments have drawn criticism from Nigerians who questioned the relevance of comparing petrol prices without considering differences in wages, purchasing power and economic conditions between the two countries.
The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) also criticised the governor and called for his resignation. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the party described the comparison as “reckless and irresponsible,” arguing that petrol prices should be considered alongside the purchasing power of consumers.
The APM cited differences in income levels between Nigerian and British workers, arguing that a direct comparison of pump prices was misleading. The party also pointed to lower petrol prices in some oil-producing countries, including Libya and Iran, as evidence that crude oil production can affect domestic fuel costs.
Labour unionist Abayomi Idowu described Okpebholo’s remarks as insensitive and provocative. He questioned the basis for comparing fuel prices in Nigeria and the UK without taking into account differences in minimum wages and living standards.
The criticism comes amid continuing public concern over the cost of petrol and other essential goods following the removal of the fuel subsidy and subsequent changes in pump prices. Petrol prices vary significantly across Nigeria, depending on location and prevailing market conditions.
Okpebholo has defended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, saying the measures are intended to stabilise the economy and that their benefits would become more apparent over time. He also declared that there was “no vacancy” at Aso Rock, signalling his support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The controversy has kept attention focused on the wider debate over petrol prices, household purchasing power and the impact of the government’s economic reforms on Nigerians.
