The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s proposed plan to introduce a 5% tax on petrol.
CACOL warned that such a move would deepen the economic suffering of Nigerians.
In a statement signed by Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo, CACOL Chairman Debo Adeniran described the proposal as “insensitive and counterproductive,” stressing that it would further strain citizens already grappling with tough economic realities.
“At a time when Nigerians are battling the consequences of severe economic policies, imposing an additional tax on petrol will escalate inflation, increase job losses, and intensify public resentment toward the government,” the statement read.
CACOL expressed disappointment that nearly three years of enduring economic reforms have not translated into any significant relief for citizens. Instead, the organisation argued, this new tax threatens to worsen the situation.
“The proposed petrol tax lacks any reasonable justification. President Tinubu recently announced that the Federal Government had achieved its revenue target as far back as August without borrowing. If government revenues are already on track, what is the rationale behind this new charge?” CACOL said.
The group also questioned whether the policy might be a deliberate attempt to stifle economic activities and weaken citizens’ ability to demand accountability.
CACOL further disclosed that it is in consultation with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), and Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) to collectively resist anti-people policies.
“We maintain that Nigerians must not be pushed to the wall. The proposed tax is unjustifiable, unfair, and unacceptable. We call on the Federal Government to withdraw this plan immediately and adopt policies that stimulate production, create jobs, and alleviate citizens’ suffering,” the group insisted.
