Nigerian activist Deji Adeyanju has strongly criticized the recent surge in fuel prices, accusing Aliko Dangote’s Dangote Refinery of exploiting Nigerians amid geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region. The activist described the increase—over 100% at the pump—as an unjustifiable burden on citizens, particularly given that the refinery sources crude oil domestically and has government approval to purchase crude from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company in naira.
Adeyanju highlighted that the fuel being sold was refined long before the recent escalation of hostilities in Iran, raising questions about the legitimacy of linking the price hike to international conflict. “Why should Nigerians bear the burden of a price increase tied to events that did not affect the cost of already-refined stock?” he asked.
The activist further criticized the Dangote Refinery’s near-monopoly position in the country’s refining sector, arguing that the government has failed to regulate the company’s pricing practices. He described the situation as “unprecedented wickedness,” accusing the refinery of profiting from international unrest at the expense of ordinary Nigerians, many of whom are already struggling with economic hardships.
Economic observers note that the development could intensify public anger over fuel pricing, which has long been a sensitive issue in Nigeria. The lack of competition in domestic refining, coupled with the government’s limited intervention, has fueled concerns that large players like Dangote Refinery may continue to leverage market dominance to the detriment of consumers.
Adeyanju called on regulatory authorities to urgently intervene, enforce pricing transparency, and ensure that domestic fuel consumers are not unfairly penalized for factors beyond their control.
