The Federal Government should immediately stop raising petrol prices, according to the National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF), as doing so could have disastrous repercussions.

Nigeria is struggling with rising rates of poverty, which are predicted to reach 38.9% in 2023. This need arises at that time.

The NCEF blamed the current economic hardship in Nigeria on the increase in petrol prices, which has raised the cost of food and other necessities, in a communiqué released on Thursday following its meeting.

The urgent need for government action was emphasised in the communiqué, which was signed by NCEF Chairman Dr. Samuel Gani, CON.

The group also mentioned the increasing suffering that Nigerians are experiencing when expressing concern about the effects of the latest protests.

The NCEF recommended a comprehensive approach to address these issues, which included lowering electricity tariffs to increase productivity and create jobs, reviewing petrol prices to lessen the suffering of Nigerians, strengthening security measures, especially for rural farmers, and addressing the effects of protests brought on by the hike in petrol prices and financial hardship.

Additionally, the Christian Elders emphasised the need for more prompt and efficient action by pointing out that the government’s efforts to combat insecurity had fallen short.

We ask the government to reevaluate the recent increase in gas prices, since they have resulted in a notable increase in the price of food and other necessities, according to the press release. Recognising that the rising cost of petrol and the escalating hardships experienced by the people were the reasons behind some Nigerians’ recent protests is crucial. We suggest that the price of petrol be reduced in order to lessen people’s suffering.

We support lowering energy rates to help Nigerians manufacture goods and services more cheaply in order to further address the country’s economic problems. This policy will increase output and give our rapidly growing youth population job possibilities.

Furthermore, we demand increased protection, especially for rural farmers who are essential to the country’s food security. Although we applaud the government’s efforts in this area, we need more prompt and efficient action.

We are confident that these simple suggestions can greatly lessen the present suffering that a great number of Nigerians are going through. We have faith in the political will and wisdom of the government to carry out these initiatives.