The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has strongly criticized Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for comparing Nigeria's petrol prices with those of the United Kingdom, labeling the remark as "callous" and insensitive to the plight of ordinary citizens.

In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the APM condemned the soaring cost of petrol, which has surged past ₦1,500 per litre under the current administration, while hitting out at attempts to use Western pricing models to justify local costs.

Key Highlights from APM's Statement

  • The Income Disparity: The APM blasted the comparison, pointing out the massive gap between the purchasing power of workers in both countries. While a UK worker earns an average monthly wage of about £2,636 (approximately ₦4.6 million), the average Nigerian worker struggles to survive on a meager ₦70,000 monthly minimum wage.

  • Flawed Transport Context: The party noted that unlike the UK, which features structured, regulated, and government-subsidized public transport systems, Nigerians are forced to navigate an expensive, informal transportation network.

  • Comparison with Other Oil Producers: Pointing to global benchmarks, the APM highlighted that in other oil-producing nations—such as Libya and even war-torn Iran—petrol sells at the equivalent of ₦41 to ₦52 per litre.

  • Looking Ahead to 2027: Capitalizing on the public anger over the rising cost of living, the opposition party urged Nigerians to channel their frustration into the 2027 polls, positioning Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as a more humane and people-focused leadership alternative under its platform.

Do you think comparing domestic fuel prices to Western economies makes economic sense, or does it ignore the stark realities of local purchasing power? Let's discuss in the comments below!