Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has compared petrol prices in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, saying Nigerians are paying less for the commodity despite the recent increases in pump prices.
Okpebholo made the remarks on Thursday at the “Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road” event in Edo State, where he also spoke about the economic reforms of the Federal Government and the condition of the major highway.
Okpebholo: UK Petrol Costs Over ₦3,000 Per Litre
The governor said he visited London the previous week and decided to compare the cost of petrol in the United Kingdom with the price paid by motorists in Nigeria.
According to him, the price of petrol in the UK was equivalent to more than ₦3,000 per litre after conversion.
“Let’s go and buy fuel just to know the cost of fuel between Nigeria and England. Let me tell you, after conversion, it’s about 3,000-something for one litre of fuel,” he said.
Okpebholo subsequently said the comparison showed that Nigerians were paying less for petrol.
“We are doing very well here. The President is stabilising the economy. He’s an economist,” he said.
His comments come amid continued concerns over petrol prices and the rising cost of living following the removal of the petrol subsidy and subsequent changes in pump prices.
Governor Defends Economic Reforms
Okpebholo described the ongoing economic reforms as difficult but said he expected them to eventually produce positive results.
He compared the reforms to an aircraft taking off, explaining that passengers do not receive certain services until the aircraft reaches cruising altitude.
According to the governor, Nigeria would soon reach what he described as a “cruising level” of economic stability.
“I want to let you know, very soon Nigeria will be on the cruising level,” he said.
The governor also pointed to road construction projects across the country as evidence of development under President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Okpebholo Supports Federal Intervention On Benin-Asaba Road
The governor spoke in support of the Federal Government's intervention on the Benin-Asaba Road,
a major route connecting Edo and Delta states.
The highway has experienced deterioration in parts, creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The “Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road” event was organised in connection with efforts to address the condition of the road.
Okpebholo thanked those involved in efforts to improve the highway and expressed support for the Federal Government's intervention.
Governor Comments On 2027 Presidency
During his remarks, Okpebholo also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu remaining in office after the 2027 presidential election.
He questioned whether the presidential seat was available and referred to a statement attributed to the Oba of Benin about retaining a serving president.
“Is Aso Rock vacant? Is Aso Rock vacant? So Aso Rock is not vacant,” Okpebholo said.
He added that he agreed with the Oba of Benin's reported position that “you don't change a working President.”
The governor also said he believed the ongoing reforms would eventually improve economic conditions, describing Edo State and Nigeria as being in “safe hands.”
The event ended with Okpebholo thanking participants and stakeholders for their concern over the Benin-Asaba Road.
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