The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has expressed concern over the continuous rise in fuel prices in Nigeria, warning that the trend is worsening the economic hardship faced by ordinary citizens across the country.
In a press release issued Monday by IHRC-RFT Country Director, Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the organization noted that the persistent increase in the cost of petrol has triggered higher transportation fares, rising food prices and an overall surge in the cost of living.
The group stressed that Nigeria, despite being an oil-producing nation with significant petroleum resources and refining capacity, should not be experiencing the current level of fuel price increases.
According to the organisation, many Nigerians are finding it difficult to understand why domestic fuel prices continue to climb despite the country’s natural advantage in oil production.
IHRC-RFT further noted that while global oil prices may fluctuate, citizens expect the nation’s natural resources to translate into economic relief and shared prosperity for the population.
Instead, the organisation said the rising cost of fuel is placing additional pressure on households already grappling with economic challenges.
The commission therefore called on the leadership of the country to respond with urgency, transparency and a strong sense of responsibility toward the welfare of citizens.
It also urged relevant stakeholders, particularly the National Assembly of Nigeria, to carefully review the situation and take appropriate measures to address the growing concern.
“The wellbeing of the Nigerian people must remain a central priority in the management of our national resources,” the organisation said.
