A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Soni Abang, has defended President Bola Tinubu over rising fuel prices in Nigeria, attributing the surge to global economic conditions rather than domestic policy decisions.
Speaking at a mega endorsement rally held at the Ikom Township Stadium on Saturday, Abang said international factors such as geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in global crude oil prices were largely responsible for the increase in petrol costs.
He argued that it was unfair to hold the current administration solely responsible for fuel price hikes, noting that similar pressures were being felt across global economies.
“Is Tinubu the one who started the crisis in Iran? These are global issues affecting economies around the world. Even at that, fuel prices in Nigeria remain relatively competitive,” he said.
Abang, who also serves as Executive Director of the South-South Development Commission, maintained that the Tinubu administration inherited a fragile economy and has since introduced reforms aimed at stabilising the country’s fiscal outlook.
He pointed to policy measures such as the removal of fuel subsidy as necessary but difficult steps intended to reposition the economy for long-term growth.
According to him, the impact of rising fuel costs on food prices is beginning to ease, as government interventions gradually take effect.
“Food prices are coming down daily. The earlier spike was manipulated by opposition elements to create panic, but the situation is improving,” he added.
Abang also cited ongoing infrastructure projects across the country as evidence of what he described as the administration’s commitment to development and economic recovery.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and continue supporting the government, expressing confidence that current reforms would eventually deliver tangible benefits.
The rally attracted thousands of party supporters and also featured endorsements for President Tinubu and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu ahead of future political contests.
The event reflects ongoing political messaging within the ruling party as it seeks to defend its economic policies amid public concerns over inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
