The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to desist from imposing further economic hardship on Nigerians.

This warning follows President Tinubu’s approval of a 15 per cent import duty on petrol and diesel.

In a statement issued by its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Friday in Abuja, ADC argued that the new tax would worsen the already severe hardship in the country, adding that it could push citizens to the brink of revolt.

The party emphasised the need to encourage local refining, reiterating that such policies must not come at the expense of citizens’ wellbeing.

According to ADC, introducing a fresh levy on imported fuel at a time when Nigerians are experiencing the excruciating pains of economic reform reflects insensitivity and poor judgement.

“From all indications, this new levy is likely to push the pump price of petrol beyond N1,000 per litre.
“If this happens, life would become even more unbearable for families, commuters, transporters, farmers, and small businesses already struggling under the weight of fuel subsidy removal without social protection and currency devaluation without safeguards,” ADC said.