Emmanuel OchayiSERAP Takes Legal Action Against President and NNPCL
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken a legal action against President Bola Tinubu, demanding the reversal of the recent petrol price hike and an investigation into alleged corruption within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
SERAP claims that the government’s failure to address the increasing cost of petrol is unlawful and places unnecessary strain on Nigerians.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelJoined in the lawsuit are the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the NNPCL.
Filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is calling for immediate government intervention to protect citizens from what it describes as “unjust and unreasonable increases in petrol prices.”
Unlawful Increase in Petrol Prices, Says SERAP
SERAP has requested the court to compel President Tinubu to order the NNPCL to reduce petrol prices, arguing that the recent increase from N600 to N845 per litre is unlawful. The organization believes that the hike violates the country’s constitutional and human rights obligations.
“The increase in petrol price is causing immense hardship to those less well-off,” a SERAP representative explained. “This decision is pushing people deeper into poverty as Nigeria’s economic situation worsens.”
SERAP is also asking the court to direct the President and anti-corruption agencies to investigate allegations of mismanagement within the NNPCL, including the reported $300 million bailout fund collected by the company from the federal government in August 2024, as well as its $6 billion debt to suppliers.
SERAP Demands Investigation Into Corruption in the Oil Sector
SERAP’s suit highlights concerns about corruption in Nigeria’s oil sector. The organisation alleges that the NNPCL has been operating without proper oversight, leading to inflated petrol prices and economic hardship for Nigerians.
READ ALSO: SERAP Urges Tinubu To Reverse Fuel Price Hike, Cites Legal Breach
“The government has a responsibility to investigate the NNPCL and ensure that those found guilty of corruption are held accountable,” SERAP’s lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, stated.
“We want the court to direct the government to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for the mismanagement of oil revenues and recover the proceeds of corruption.”
SERAP’s Call for Accountability and Transparency
SERAP argues that holding the NNPCL accountable for its alleged mismanagement and corruption is in the public’s best interest.
The organisation contends that the arbitrary increase in petrol prices not only worsens economic inequality but also undermines human rights.
“Millions of Nigerians are facing difficult economic conditions, and this price hike only makes things worse,” said SERAP in its legal filing. “The government must ensure transparency and accountability in the oil sector to protect the most vulnerable citizens.”
SERAP’s legal action focuses on several constitutional provisions. According to the organization, Section 16(1) of the Nigerian Constitution mandates the government to secure the welfare of all citizens.
Additionally, Section 13 requires the government to observe and apply provisions that ensure social justice and equal opportunity for Nigerians.
Impact of Petrol Price Hike on Nigerians
The petrol price increase has led to significant public outcry, with many Nigerians struggling to cope with the rising cost of living.
“The increase in petrol prices has placed a disproportionate burden on the marginalized and most vulnerable sectors of society,” said SERAP in its suit. “These individuals are now unable to meet their basic survival needs.”
SERAP emphasises that the government must take immediate steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. “The government has a legal obligation to ensure people’s socio-economic rights are protected,” the organisation stated. “Failing to address corruption and mismanagement in the NNPCL will only perpetuate poverty and inequality.”
What Happens Next in SERAP’s Lawsuit?
No date has been set for the hearing of SERAP’s lawsuit. However, the organisation hopes that the court will compel the government to take swift action to reverse the petrol price hike and investigate the allegations of corruption in the NNPCL.
“Investigating the NNPCL is not just about addressing corruption—it’s about ensuring that Nigerians can live with dignity,” said SERAP. “The government must act in the best interest of the people and fulfill its constitutional obligations.”
SERAP’s legal action against President Tinubu and the NNPCL is a bold step toward holding the government accountable for its handling of the country’s oil sector.
As Nigerians continue to bear the brunt of high petrol prices and economic challenges, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for transparency and accountability in the management of the nation’s resources.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
