Northern Christian Elders Urge Tinubu to Reverse Petrol Price Increase, Warn Over Rising Hardship

ABUJA, Nigeria — September 17, 2026 — The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the latest increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), warning that Nigerians’ continued patience amid economic pressures should not be interpreted as acceptance of worsening living conditions.

The appeal was contained in a statement signed by NOSCEF Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, as the group raised concerns about the financial pressures facing households across the country.

NOSCEF said higher petrol prices would add to transportation and other household expenses and could further weaken the purchasing power of Nigerians already dealing with elevated living costs.

NOSCEF Calls for Economic Relief

The Christian elders urged the Tinubu administration to prioritise measures aimed at reducing the cost of living, expanding employment opportunities, strengthening security and improving critical infrastructure.

According to the forum, the Federal Government should consider alternative and sustainable sources of revenue rather than repeatedly relying on increases in petroleum costs that ultimately affect consumers.

“The patience of Nigerians should not be mistaken for acceptance of perpetual hardship,” the forum warned.

NOSCEF also argued that citizens’ welfare should remain a major consideration in government economic decisions.

Group Warns Against Disconnect From Citizens

The forum urged President Tinubu to remain attentive to conditions being experienced by ordinary Nigerians and cautioned against relying solely on assessments from officials and supporters that may portray economic conditions more favourably.

NOSCEF said its assessment was informed by the experiences of its members within communities.

The organisation acknowledged that the Tinubu administration had undertaken measures in some areas but maintained that further interventions were needed to address pressures associated with living costs, unemployment, insecurity and infrastructure.

It consequently called for policies aimed at restoring household purchasing power and creating productive economic opportunities, particularly for young Nigerians.

Security and Infrastructure Also Raised

Beyond petrol prices, NOSCEF called for stronger efforts to tackle insecurity and accelerate the rehabilitation and development of critical infrastructure.

The group maintained that addressing these challenges alongside economic pressures would be important to improving conditions for households and businesses.

NOSCEF ultimately urged the Federal Government to listen to public concerns and ensure that citizens’ welfare remains an important factor in major economic decisions.

The statement comes amid renewed public debate over petrol prices and their wider effect on transportation, household expenditure and business operating costs.