In an exclusive interview with South-South PUNCH in Port Harcourt on Monday, elder statesman and Niger Delta activist Sokari Soberekon issued a stark warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the Fuel’s hike.
The retired soldier-turned-activist urged Tinubu to reduce the price of fuel to a minimum of N700 per liter, emphasizing that Niger Delta states, as oil-producing regions, should benefit from reduced fuel costs. “How can the people pay this huge amount of money for fuel? It’s a complete breakdown. I’m calling on President Tinubu now to bring down the fuel price to N700 per litre,” he declared.
In a bold statement, Soberekon highlighted the severity of the situation, pledging his commitment to the cause. “I am saying President Tinubu must bring down the fuel price, not due to confrontation and others. For me, my style is to give my life. I gave my life to the people. I will also commit suicide if President Tinubu does not bring down the fuel price to N700 per litre, and I know he is a good President who will not like his subjects to die. He will do something about it,” he stated, firmly opposing any confrontational tactics to force a price reduction.
Soberekon’s remarks highlight a deep-seated frustration among Niger Delta residents over the perceived economic inequities tied to oil production in their region.