NBA Ikeja Branch Criticizes Fuel Price Hike, Inflation, and High Cost of Living in Nigeria

NBA Ikeja Branch Criticizes Fuel Price Hike, Inflation, and High Cost of Living in Nigeria

The Ikeja Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has voiced grave concerns over Nigeria's deteriorating economic situation, highlighting the burdens placed on citizens by the recent fuel price hike and the resulting inflation. The association warns that these economic pressures have worsened the cost of consumer goods, transportation, healthcare, and education, placing an overwhelming strain on low- and middle-income families, small businesses, and average households.

The NBA expressed particular disappointment with the government's decision to raise fuel prices, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's prior assurances that the price per liter of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) would remain steady at around N600. This price hike, the NBA argues, has undermined public trust and further strained citizens' faith in government commitments.

The NBA Ikeja Branch demands:

- *Immediate reversal of the recent PMS price hike nationwide.*

- *Reversal of the 250% increase in electricity tariffs.*

- *An end to all policies deemed detrimental to public welfare.*

- *Reduction in the cost of governance, addressing what the association calls an "over-bloated" government.*

In calling for urgent government intervention, the NBA Ikeja Branch stresses the need for policy adjustments to alleviate citizens' economic burdens. The association advises a methodical review of economic data, theoretical insights, and cross-national comparisons to better understand and address the multifaceted impacts of fuel price hikes and inflation on the country's socio-economic framework.

Moreover, the association emphasizes the importance of safeguarding access to justice during these challenging times. It urges the government to continue funding and supporting programs that protect citizens' rights, ensuring that economic challenges do not restrict access to justice.

Call for Swift Action

The NBA Ikeja Branch has called on the government to prioritize these concerns, with the hope that immediate action will alleviate citizens' hardship and preserve fundamental rights.

Signed,  

Oluwaseyi Olawumi, Esq.  

Chairman, NBA Ikeja Branch