The Maiduguri branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the latest hike of petrol price by the NNPCL.
The branch in a statement on Wednesday signed by its Chairman, Zanna Hamza, and Secretary, Zakariya M. Umar, also raised alarm on deliberate hoarding of the product by some filling stations.
“We, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Maiduguri Branch unequivocally condemn the recent exorbitant increase in fuel prices by Federal Government of Nigeria through NNPCL.
“Obviously, the increment comes at a time of significant economic hardship devastating Nigerians. Citizens should not bear the brunt of such inconsiderate actions that further compound their already intense condition. We therefore implore the Federal Government to reverse the increase.
“In the same vein, the Branch is deeply concerned about the subsequent deliberate hoarding of fuel by majority of filling stations within Maiduguri and its environ. This has results in an artificial fuel scarcity within Borno State, foisting more hardship onto the public.
“In light of this situation, the NBA calls on the Borno State Government to urgently constitute a HIGH POWERED TASK FORCE to discreetly monitor the situation and sanction all filling stations found culprit of hoarding fuel.
“It is imperative that the Government takes swift action to address this issue and ensure that the people of Borno State are not subjected to unnecessary hardship due to the greed of a few individuals.
“We additionally urge the State Government to ensure the availability of fuel through BOSCO at affordable prices and to expand the network of Government-owned filling stations across the State,” the statement added
It reiterated the commitment to stands firm in protecting public interest and advocating for the welfare of the people, adding that it would continue to monitor the situation closely.
