The coalition emphasized that removing these levies would enhance affordability for Nigerians and alleviate the increasing hardships faced by the populace. This statement was released in Abuja by Dr. Jonathan Amande, the coalition’s Executive Director.
The appeal comes in response to the recent rise in petrol prices by NNPCL, which has sparked significant public discontent. Many citizens are questioning the rationale behind the fuel price increase, especially given that the product is being refined locally.
In light of the price hike, the Coalition has called for the immediate removal of hidden charges on fuel sourced from the Dangote Refinery. They pointed out that these undisclosed fees have been added to the publicly acknowledged costs, including the Premium, inspection fees, margins, and the NMDPRA (Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority) fees.
The Coalition argued that these "invisible government levies," which also include charges from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), are unwarranted and contribute to the inflated costs of domestically produced fuel. They asserted that such levies have no justification in the local production and sale of petroleum products, hindering the Dangote Refinery's ability to offer fuel at more competitive prices.
The Coalition concluded that without these additional charges, local refineries could potentially sell fuel for as low as ₦400 per litre.