By Salisu Ibrahim 
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) expresses serious concern over the continuous rise in fuel prices in Nigeria and the growing hardship it is causing for ordinary citizens.
It said, “Nigeria is an oil-producing country with significant petroleum resources and existing refining capacity, and many citizens are finding it difficult to understand why domestic fuel prices continue to increase despite these advantages.
A statement signed by Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, Country Director, International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), ECOSOC said, the current situation has led to higher transportation costs, increased food prices, and a general rise in the cost of living across the country.
While global oil prices may fluctuate, the expectation of Nigerians is that the nation’s natural resources should translate into economic relief and shared benefits for its people, the country director observed. “Unfortunately, the opposite appears to be the case, as rising fuel prices continue to place additional pressure on already struggling households”.
The country director therefore called on the leadership of the country to act with urgency, transparency, and a strong sense of responsibility toward the welfare of citizens.
“We urge all relevant stakeholders, particularly members of the National Assembly, to carefully review the situation and take appropriate measures to address this growing concern. “The wellbeing of the Nigerian people must remain a central priority in the management of our national resources”, he stressed.