Fuel Price Drama! Nicholas Ukachukwu Alleges Manipulation By Marketers

Speaking on Arise News, Ukachukwu argued that Nigerians should not bear the full impact of global tensions, particularly the Iran–United States tensions, given that the country refines crude locally.

He pointed out that with facilities like the Dangote Refinery, Nigeria ought to be relatively shielded from external shocks, even though global disruptions may still have some influence.

According to him, while international developments could affect the local market, the scale of the price increase is unjustifiable.

“I believe there is some level of manipulation by marketers,” he said. “Nigeria should be somewhat insulated because we refine and produce crude locally. Yes, global issues may have some impact, but not to the extent of 300 percent—it’s simply not acceptable.”

Meanwhile, the Airline Operators of Nigeria has announced a temporary suspension of its planned strike action.

The decision followed intervention by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

In a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting of its Executive Council and Board of Trustees, the association said it decided to pause the shutdown to allow room for dialogue and a possible resolution.

The AON stated that the planned strike scheduled for April 20, 2026, has been put on hold pending the outcome of a meeting convened by the minister.

It added that the meeting, slated for April 22, 2026, will bring stakeholders together to seek a lasting and mutually beneficial solution to the sharp rise in the price of Jet A1 fuel.