Many Nigerians gathered in Abuja on Monday to hold a major protest against rising fuel prices, ongoing fuel shortages, and increasing economic difficulties.

The protest was led by Abdullahi Bilal from the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal, along with Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac from Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN).

The demonstrators called for immediate action to tackle what they referred to as ‘poor leadership in the management of the country’s oil sector.’

“Today, we call for the immediate resignation of the current leadership in the country’s oil sector. Their management has failed Nigerians.”

 “Under their watch, we have seen fuel prices skyrocket without consultation or consideration of the devastating impact on the people. We have endured fuel scarcity while substandard, adulterated fuel is imported, causing further hardship.”

At the heart of the protests were complaints about soaring fuel prices and long queues, which the protesters argued have fueled inflation and pushed millions of Nigerians into poverty.

The demonstrators criticized the current fuel subsidy system, claiming it benefits only a small group while leaving many people grappling with high costs.

“We demand the complete removal of the fraudulent fuel subsidy regime that has only served to enrich a select few. Full deregulation is necessary to introduce transparency, competition, and fairness to our oil sector.

“We also demand an end to the importation of adulterated fuel into Nigeria. This harmful practice must stop immediately, and those responsible must be held accountable for the damage caused to our vehicles, businesses, and livelihoods.

“Nigerians have suffered long enough, wasting hours and days queuing for fuel. We demand a sustainable solution to the fuel scarcity crisis—no more excuses, no more delays. We deserve better.”

Additionally, the protesters expressed concern over the importation of adulterated fuel, describing it as a corrupt practice that damages vehicles and negatively impacts businesses.

The group further expressed disappointment over the unmet expectations surrounding the Dangote Refinery, which was supposed to solve Nigeria’s fuel crisis. They voiced their frustration about the significant amount of money invested in building the refinery and renovating existing facilities.

“We also want to emphasize the failure of the highly anticipated refinery. Nigerians were assured that it would resolve our fuel crisis, but it has not delivered.

“This mismanagement has resulted in inflation soaring to an alarming 24.5% as of November 2024. Fuel prices have surged by more than 200%, pushing millions of Nigerians further into poverty.”

They pointed out that despite these investments, fuel shortages still occur, leaving Nigeria dependent on costly imports despite being an oil-producing nation.