Lagos APC Defends 30-Day Petrol Discount, Calls for Transparent Implementation

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has defended the Federal Government's proposed temporary reduction in petrol prices, while also acknowledging that a one-month intervention cannot by itself solve Nigeria's wider cost-of-living pressures.

Party spokesman Seye Oladejo made the position known in a statement on Friday after several opposition figures and groups criticised the planned arrangement. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the Obidient Movement, the Nigeria Democratic Congress and the presidential campaign organisation of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde were identified in the source as opponents of the measure. Their objections included claims that the proposal was insufficient and politically driven.

Under the government's plan, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited would temporarily surrender its retail profit margin so petrol could be sold at a lower price through its outlets for 30 days. Public transport operators are expected to receive priority. The Presidency has said the arrangement should not be treated as a restoration of the fuel subsidy system removed in May 2023.

Oladejo argued that critics should assess how the programme is financed and structured before describing it as a disguised subsidy. He challenged opponents who consider the plan inadequate to explain what alternative they would introduce, how they would pay for it and how quickly Nigerians could expect relief from such a proposal.

At the same time, the Lagos APC accepted that questions about the programme's durability and what happens after the 30-day period are reasonable. The party called for clear communication from the government about how the intervention will end, the conditions that will be used to review its performance and any additional measures planned to support price stability.

The party also asked the Federal Government to ensure that the discount reaches the people it is intended to help. It identified transparency and verification of benefits as important parts of the implementation process, particularly because the initiative is being presented as short-term support for households and businesses facing higher transport and living expenses.

Beyond the temporary petrol measure, Lagos APC called for continued work on domestic refining and distribution, lower logistics expenses, support for public transportation, wider access to affordable credit and policies aimed at improving household purchasing power. It said these broader measures would be necessary because the proposed discount alone would not address the full range of economic pressures facing Nigerians.

The disagreement therefore centres not only on whether temporary petrol relief should be offered, but also on its financing, effectiveness and sustainability. Lagos APC's position is that the immediate intervention should be judged by its design and results while the government explains what longer-term measures will follow.