Hundreds of Nigerians gathered in Abuja on Monday to protest against rising fuel prices, hunger and economic hardship.
The demonstration was led by Abdullahi Bilal of the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal, alongside Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac from the Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN).
The purpose of the protest is to demand urgent reforms in the oil sector.
Protesters expressed their anger over the severe impact of soaring fuel prices and persistent fuel shortages, which they argued contribute to increasing inflation and widespread poverty.
They criticized the current fuel subsidy, claiming it only benefits a small group while leaving many citizens facing escalating costs.
The marchers called for the full deregulation of the oil sector to ensure transparency and fair pricing.
They raised concerns about the frequent importation of low-quality fuel, which damages vehicles and disrupts daily life for many Nigerians.
The group also expressed disappointment over the delayed promises of the Dangote Refinery to end the country’s reliance on imported fuel, despite investments in refinery development.
Highlighting the economic repercussions of the fuel crisis, protesters pointed to an inflation rate exceeding 24% and a 200% increase in fuel costs, which they believe are pushing more Nigerians into poverty.
They urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the needs of citizens by reforming leadership within the oil sector and ensuring accountability.
The demonstrators vowed to continue their protests until they see real changes in how the oil sector is managed, emphasizing their determination to fight for fairness and improved living conditions for all Nigerians.
“This Two Million Man March represents the voices of Nigerians who feel betrayed by a system enriching a few at the expense of many. We are calling for the resignation of those leading the oil sector due to their failure to control fuel prices and ensure a stable supply. We demand the removal of the subsidy system that has served only to enrich a select few. Nigerians deserve full deregulation to bring fairness and competition to the oil sector”, Abdullahi Bilal said.
