Hundreds of Nigerians gathered in Abuja on Monday to protest against rising fuel prices, economic hardship, and widespread poverty.
Led by Abdullahi Bilal of the *Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal* alongside Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac from the *Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN)*, the demonstrators called for urgent reforms in the oil sector.
The protesters voiced frustration over surging fuel prices and recurring shortages, which they argued are driving inflation and worsening poverty across Nigeria. They criticized the current fuel subsidy, claiming it benefits only a small elite, while ordinary citizens bear the brunt of escalating costs.
The protesters demanded full deregulation of the oil sector to promote transparency and fair pricing. They also raised concerns about the frequent importation of poor-quality fuel, which has damaged vehicles and disrupted daily life.
Many expressed disappointment with the delayed impact of the Dangote Refinery, which they had hoped would end Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel despite substantial investments.
Protesters highlighted that inflation has surpassed 24%, and fuel costs have spiked by 200%, pushing more Nigerians into poverty. They called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize citizens’ needs by reforming leadership in the oil sector and enforcing accountability.
The demonstrators pledged to continue their protests until real change occurs, determined to fight for fair treatment and better living conditions for all Nigerians.
Abdullahi Bilal remarked, “This Two Million Man March represents the voices of Nigerians who feel betrayed by a system enriching a few at the expense of many. We are calling for the resignation of those leading the oil sector due to their failure to control fuel prices and ensure a stable supply. We demand the removal of the subsidy system that has served only to enrich a select few. Nigerians deserve full deregulation to bring fairness and competition to the oil sector.”
