Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly criticized the federal government over the introduction of a 5% tax on all fossil fuel sales, set to take effect in January 2026. Speaking on his X platform Wednesday evening, Obi condemned the move, asserting that instead of alleviating Nigerians’ suffering, it further burdens them. 

Under the new regulation, Nigerians will pay a 5% surcharge on fossil fuel products, including petrol and diesel, at the point of sale. Obi questioned the timing and impact of this tax, highlighting that the promised subsidies for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) have quietly disappeared. 

“When will Nigerians truly breathe?” Obi asked. “A timely and relevant question, as the government just announced a 5% tax on all refined fossil fuel sales—at a time when millions struggle to afford transportation. Despite President Buhari recently claiming Nigeria met its revenue target, instead of easing hardship, the government is imposing more burdens on citizens.” 

He pointed out that the cost of CNG has skyrocketed from about ₦230 to ₦450, with subsidies vanishing unnoticed. “If our revenues are truly ‘excessive,’ shouldn’t they be used to fund education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation instead of taxing citizens who are barely surviving?” Obi challenged. 

He concluded by emphasizing that leadership should focus on reducing suffering, not increasing it, calling for tangible improvements before implementing further taxes. “Leadership is about care and compassion, not adding more hardship,” he asserted.