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By John Ogunsemore
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has said that recent pump price adjustment for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) negates the benefits of its introduction as an alternative to petrol and diesel and is a callous betrayal of the masses.
The Comrade Olushola Oladoja-led body stated this in a Monday statement following news reports of CNG price increase from N230 to N450 per standard cubic metre.
Daily Sun recalls that the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) had refuted reports of subsidy removal and increment of CNG pump price, noting that recent price adjustments announced by certain operators were purely private-sector decisions and not the outcome of any government directive or policy.
In its statement signed by Executive Director, Administration and Planning, NANS National Headquarters, Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, the student body said it was compelled to address the pressing concern over CNG price hike given its effects on the welfare of its constituency and the Nigerian masses.
The statement reads, “The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is sounding the alarm over the recent price increase of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), a move that has left millions of Nigerians reeling.
“The introduction of CNG was meant to provide relief to the masses, but the price hike has instead negated its benefits, further exacerbating the economic hardship faced by the citizenry.
“NANS strongly condemns this decision, which has had a crippling impact on transportation costs.
“Commercial drivers, struggling to make ends meet, have been forced to pass on the burden to commuters, leaving many to bear the brunt of the increased costs.
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“The timing of this price hike couldn’t be more insensitive, as Nigerians are already grappling with the harsh economic realities of rising inflation and unemployment and also left the fate of the masses hanged in the balance.”
In a three-point demand, the national student body sought immediate reconsideration of the CNG price increase, consultation with stakeholders to address concerns and transparency in CNG pricing and regulation.
The body said, “We seek clarification on the price increase and urge the Federal Government to reconsider this decision, which affects the vulnerable populations.”
It reiterated, “We seek clarification on the price increase and demand that the Federal Government reconsider this ill-conceived decision and engage in meaningful consultations with stakeholders to address the concerns of the people.
“The association insists that transparency in CNG pricing and regulation is non-negotiable and urges the government to prioritise the welfare of its citizens.”
NANS said the Comrade Olushola Oladoja-led leadership would engage with relevant agencies, including NNPC, PCNGi, NIPCO, and other stakeholders, for fact-finding and explore solutions.
NANS said failure to address these demands would lead to further hardship and suffering for the masses.
“The association remains committed to advocating for the welfare of Nigerian students and the broader citizenry, and will not hesitate to take further action if necessary,” the body stressed.
