Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the newly introduced 5% tax on refined fossil fuel sales, including petrol and diesel.

In a post on his official X handle late Wednesday, Obi stated that the tax will only deepen the suffering of ordinary Nigerians who are already struggling with high living costs.

He argued that the levy should not have been introduced at a time when many citizens can barely afford transportation and basic needs.

“Nigerians will now pay an extra 5% tax on petrol or diesel at a time when millions can hardly afford transport,” Obi wrote. “Mr. President just yesterday boasted that Nigeria has met its revenue target for the year. Yet instead of easing hardship, the government imposes more burden.”

He also raised concerns over the soaring cost of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), which was presented as a cheaper alternative to petrol. Obi noted that the price of CNG has doubled from about N230 to N450, while the promised subsidies to cushion the costs have quietly disappeared.

“If our revenues are truly ‘excessive’ as claimed, should they not first be used to fund education, healthcare, and pull Nigerians out of poverty? Why tax citizens who cannot even breathe anymore?” he asked.

Obi concluded by reminding leaders that governance should not be about increasing burdens but about reducing suffering with care and compassion.