Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke has questioned the high cost of petroleum products in Nigeria, saying the prices are adding to the financial difficulties faced by ordinary citizens.
Duke spoke during an interview with Channels Television on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, while discussing the state of the Nigerian economy and the effect of rising fuel prices on households and businesses.
The former governor challenged the justification for the current pricing of petroleum products, particularly when compared with the cost of production.
“The production cost of petroleum is $45 and you are selling it back to your people at over $100, you don’t want them to breathe?” Duke said.
He argued that the government should consider the financial realities of Nigerians when making decisions that affect the prices of essential commodities.
According to Duke, expensive fuel does not only affect motorists. It can also increase transportation costs and the prices of goods and services, while businesses that depend on generators and fuel-powered vehicles may face higher operating expenses.
He also expressed concern about low-income Nigerians who may struggle to cope with further increases in petroleum prices.
“And you people are notably the poorest in the world, they can’t afford it,” Duke added.
Duke’s comments come amid continued concerns over the effect of fuel prices on the wider cost of living in Nigeria.
SOURCE: Bigwhizzyy