The ‘New’ Nigeria: Where Fuel Scarcity Meets Broken Promises

Nigeria is already near collapse; yet, the recent hike and scarcity of fuel have thrown it deeper into turmoil. This is so because, at this point, the National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) placed upon us a vortex of affliction. Today, nothing seems to be holding the country together, just as it did not in 1967.

The increase in fuel prices by a staggering 15% makes one wonder whether or not there was actually some kind of war declared by the NNPC against ordinary citizens? For average Nigerian citizens today, again find themselves having to make choices between feeding families or fueling cars.

At this point, we can confidently say that the only thing that unites Nigerians is the high cost of living.

Long queues, popularly known as serpents of agony, have reappeared at petrol stations, where they slither like an ominous sign. This not only angers people, but also irritates them, as if the scarcity that has always plagued the country is not enough.

The once thriving fuel stations now look like ghosts. Businesses are quickly folding up, commuters are stranded , and the heart of humanity is gradually dying.

So, like lighted matches being thrown into gasoline somewhere else, the student community caught fire.
Disgusted with the status quo, they’ve taken to the streets, objecting to the change and demanding justice.

It is a cry that fills the streets, sounding like a chorus of dissatisfaction that cannot be overlooked. But, what is it that drives this dissatisfaction? Is it just the increase in fuel price and scarcity, or is there something else?

Some would say it is because the NNPC does not manage the oil resources of the country well. Others blame the federal government for its lack of foresight in diversifying the economy.

I say it’s both. Opaque dealings by the NNPC and a lack of accountability by the government have combined to create a situation of misery in the country. The price hike and scarcity are only symptoms of a greater disease – corruption, mismanagement, and total incompetence.

As the students march on and the queue lines lengthen, there’s one truth: something must be done differently. There must be an overhaul at the NNPC, transparency in dealings, and its officers should be accountable.

The government should wake up, realizing that this nation’s future is at stake. And until then, we will remain stuck in this fuel quagmire, wondering when the next scarcity will come or if another price rise will come again.