The Acting National Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing Worldwide, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, has clarified the group’s stance on the recent hike in petrol prices, following reports suggesting the group was celebrating the increase.
Pump price for petrol had as of Tuesday, skyrocketed to N1,250, with Nigerians groaning over the attendant hardship it has brought about in terms of a hike in transport cost.
In a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, Okpalaezeukwu emphasized that the Ohaneze youth wing is neither rejoicing over the price hike nor indifferent to its negative impact on the Nigerian economy and livelihoods.
He said the Igbo youths are fully aware of the challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidies and the infrastructural deficiencies that have compounded Nigeria’s current situation, stressing that the youth wing shares the concerns of all Nigerians regarding the hardship caused by these economic measures.
The Igbo youth leaders pointed out that the present economic difficulties are, in part, the result of decisions made by previous administrations.
“Crude oil was sold in advance for several years by the previous government, and the proceeds were squandered, leaving the country with significant debt,” he noted.
Drawing on an analogy, Okpalaezeukwu explained that just as crops take time to bear fruit, the effects of past policies took time to manifest, and the positive outcomes of current efforts will also take time to materialize.
He said as Igbo youths, facing unique challenges and deprivations, the youth wing stands in solidarity with all Nigerians, including President Tinubu, in these difficult times, calling for collective action to find lasting solutions to the nation’s problems.
Okpalaezeukwu concluded with a call for unity, expressing optimism that Nigeria will ultimately overcome its present difficulties.
“Together, Nigeria shall prevail,” he said.
