In an open letter to the Nigerian government, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, a human rights advocate and Country Director of the International Human Rights Commission – RFT Nigeria Chapter (IHRC-RFT), has voiced deep concern over the escalating fuel prices and the resulting economic and security challenges faced by Nigerians.
Adamu warns that the continued rise in fuel costs is driving inflation, raising living costs, and heightening insecurity across the country.
Highlighting the human rights implications of Nigeria’s current economic situation, Adamu referenced the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which calls for the protection of citizens’ economic and social rights.
He urges the government to implement decisive measures that prioritize affordability and transparency to alleviate the pressures on Nigerians and ensure their rights to safety, security, and an adequate standard of living.
“The relentless rise in fuel prices is exacerbating inflation, pushing many Nigerians further into poverty, and triggering insecurity,” Adamu stated. “The government must act to curb this trend, not only to safeguard economic stability but to protect the lives and dignity of its citizens.”
Adamu’s letter outlines specific recommendations to address these issues:
1. Mitigating Economic Hardship to Prevent Insecurity: He called for immediate action to reduce fuel costs, as economic strain can lead to increased crime and social unrest. By stabilizing the economy, Adamu argues, the government can address a key driver of insecurity and uphold citizens’ right to safety.
2. Protecting Affordable Living Standards: Noting that unchecked fuel prices disproportionately impact low-income communities, Adamu stressed the government’s role in ensuring that all Nigerians have access to essential goods and services at affordable rates, a principle upheld in Article 25 of the UDHR.
3. Implementing Transparent Pricing to Build Public Trust: Adamu emphasized the importance of transparent governance in managing fuel prices. With clear and fair pricing, he believes citizens would feel assured that the government prioritizes their welfare, ultimately fostering stability and reducing social tension.
4. Strengthening Economic Stability to Lower Crime Rates: Economic instability contributes to crime, particularly among vulnerable populations, Adamu noted. Fair fuel pricing and a stabilized economy, he argues, would lessen the appeal of illegal activities, creating safer communities.
5. Promoting Infrastructure and Renewable Energy Investments: Adamu also urged the government to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on oil by investing in renewable energy alternatives. He believes this would mitigate future price shocks, fostering long-term stability and security for Nigerians.
6. Implementing Currency Stabilization and Inflation Control Policies: The devaluation of the naira compounds inflation and poverty, Adamu highlighted, further straining public security. He called for measures to stabilize the currency and control inflation, which he sees as essential to economic resilience.
7. Providing Social Support for Vulnerable Groups: Adamu urged the government to consider social support programs, such as targeted subsidies for essential goods and public transport, to alleviate the impact on low-income Nigerians.
In closing, Adamu stressed the urgency of a comprehensive response, noting that Nigeria’s current economic challenges are affecting citizens’ safety and rights. He called for swift government action to foster an inclusive economy that protects all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable.
“A stable, fair, and inclusive economy is not just the foundation for prosperity—it’s essential for the security and dignity of every Nigerian,” he concluded.