Edo Governor Okpebholo faces backlash for claiming Nigerians should rejoice at N1,500 fuel prices

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo stated Nigerians should be happy with petrol prices between N1,400 and N1,500 per litre, arguing UK prices exceed N3,000/litre after currency conversion. He made this comparison during the 'Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road' event in Edo State on October 4, 2026, citing a recent London visit where he checked pump prices with a friend.

Critics immediately challenged the comparison, noting it ignored critical economic disparities: Nigeria's national minimum wage is N70,000 monthly while UK workers earn approximately £2,636-£2,839 (N4.6-4.9 million) monthly. Social media users like @hakimizaki_01 and @trainritefitness questioned the validity of comparing fuel prices without considering purchasing power, crude oil ownership, or wage differences. The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) condemned the remarks as 'reckless and irresponsible,' demanding Okpebholo's resignation and highlighting that oil-producing nations like Libya and Iran sell fuel at N41-N52 per litre.

The controversy occurs amid widespread economic strain following petrol subsidy removal, with pump prices varying nationally from N400 to N1,500 depending on location. Okpebholo defended Federal Government reforms as necessary 'difficult' measures for economic stabilization, using an aircraft takeoff analogy where 'food service' (economic relief) begins only at 'cruising altitude.'

When evaluating fuel price claims, what specific economic factors beyond raw pump prices—such as wage levels, purchasing power, or national oil resources—should Nigerians consider to assess true affordability?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/05/nigerians-tackle-gov-okpebholo-over-n3000-fuel-price-comment/