A community leader from Isah-Ogwashi in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Apostle Francis Utomi, has called on the Federal Government to consider reducing the pump price of petrol to between ₦400 and ₦500 per litre to ease the current economic hardship facing Nigerians.
Apostle Utomi, popularly known as Blessed Utomi and a renowned agriculturist, made the appeal during a media chat at his country home in Isah-Ogwashi.
He noted that Nigerians have continued to face severe hardship since the removal of the fuel subsidy, which, though intended to free up resources for infrastructure, education, and healthcare, has resulted in higher costs of living for ordinary citizens.
According to him, “The only thing that can reduce the sufferings of Nigerians right now is to bring down the price of fuel. The high cost of petroleum products has led to an increase in food prices and affected almost every aspect of our economy.”
Apostle Utomi observed that many businesses, including farms and transport companies, were struggling to operate effectively due to rising fuel costs. He described the situation as “serious and unfortunate,” noting that several Nigerians had resorted to parking their vehicles because of unaffordable fuel prices.
He further emphasized that the nation’s economy would experience significant improvement if energy costs were made more affordable, as this would stimulate production, revive industries, and enhance food security.
On the issue of insecurity, Apostle Utomi lamented the deplorable condition of many federal roads, which he said had worsened the security challenges across the country. He appealed to governments at all levels to prioritize road rehabilitation and maintenance to ensure safer movement of people and goods.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to imbibe a spirit of patriotism and collective responsibility, stressing that “Nigeria would be a better place if everyone thinks of what they can do for the country and not what the country can do for them.”
