By Patrick Obia
The Calabar Group of Socialists, a social movement for a better welfare of the citizenry, strongly condemns the recent and “heartless” hike in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) better known as fuel.
The group in a statement signed by Comrade James Ibor Esq, Comrade Nse Paulinus, Comrade Affiong Affiong and Comrade Jonathan Ugbal, said the chronic power shortage in the country, fueled by corruption, has already condemned about half of the population to depend on generators for everyday activities.
They noted that the hike is a cruel blow to the already battered citizenry as it further entrenches poverty, suffocates ailing businesses and intensifies the sufferings of the people.
The Socialists added that the “wicked hike”, like those in the past, is devoid of any cushioning measures, and exposes the stark indifference of leaders to the plight of the masses which flagrantly violates Section 14(2b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), that demands the prioritization of citizens’ welfare above anything else.
They also demand that Governor Bassey Otu’s fulfills his “People’s First” promise in the State by publishing and implementing a mass-friendly transit scheme within 7 days; implementation of an affordable and transparent energy scheme as well as the investigation of the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion scheme which is “an insult, extorting Nigerians under the guise of cheaper energy.”
They urged Nigerians to join the struggle, mobilizing against the government’s inhumane policies, as they will hit the streets to march for their rights till the demands are met. “Enough is enough! We will not be silenced in the face of suffering,” they stated.