Several Okada riders in Cameroon, commonly referred to as commercial motorcyclists, have expressed their dissatisfaction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to eliminate fuel subsidies. This move has led to a significant surge in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, reaching a minimum of N500.
President Tinubu made this announcement during his inauguration speech on May 29, 2023, stating that “fuel subsidies are no longer in effect.”
Shortly after the announcement, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) issued a document confirming the increase in fuel prices from N189 to a range between N488 and N600. Fuel subsidies were a means of government intervention aimed at reducing the cost of fuel.
Through direct financial assistance to oil companies, the government aimed to lower the product’s price for consumers, particularly Nigerians, making it more affordable for them.
Nigeria, being one of Africa’s largest crude oil producers, heavily relied on this resource for its economic growth.
In a recently surfaced video, motorcyclists in Garoua, Cameroon were captured expressing their dissatisfaction with President Tinubu, using a mix of Fulfulde and French languages. This video has garnered various reactions from Nigerians and also supports claims that subsidized fuel from Nigeria is being illicitly transported to other countries, where it is resold at a higher price for increased profits.
According to reports, petrol from Nigeria is frequently smuggled into neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Benin Republic, and even as far as Sudan. A BBC report highlighted that in Benin Republic, the smuggled petrol is sold for 700 CFA or 800 CFA, significantly higher than the previous price of 450 CFA.
Locally referred to as “kpayo” in Goun, a native language, smuggled petrol is considered cheaper than refueling at regular stations, as reported by local media