Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sparked widespread debate after claiming that Nigerians paying around ₦1,400 per litre for petrol are faring better than motorists in the United Kingdom, where fuel sells for over ₦3,000 per litre.
Speaking on Thursday, September 24, 2026, during the flag-off of “Operation Rescue Benin-Asaba Road,” Governor Okpebholo shared insights from his recent trip to London.
“When we complained about the cost of petrol, I was in London last week. I told my friend, ‘Let’s go and buy fuel just to know the cost of fuel between Nigeria and England,'” Okpebholo said. “Let me tell you, after conversion, it’s about ₦3,000-something for one litre of fuel.”
Defense of Federal economic reforms
Governor Okpebholo argued that the nominal price difference demonstrates that President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies are stabilizing the national economy.
Key highlights from the governor’s address include:
Comparative pricing: Okpebholo asserted that direct currency conversions show Nigerian pump prices remain considerably lower than those in developed Western nations.
Economic trajectory: He urged patience with ongoing Federal Government reforms, expressing optimism that the Nigerian economy will soon reach “cruising level.”
Praise for administration: Describing President Tinubu as an experienced economist, Okpebholo stated that tough structural changes are essential for long-term stability.
Mixed public reactions
The governor’s remarks come as Nigerians continue to adjust to elevated transport fares and food inflation following the removal of the petrol subsidy and foreign exchange unification.
While political allies defended Okpebholo’s mathematical comparison, critics pointed out that direct currency conversion ignores significant disparities in minimum wage, purchasing power parity, and average income levels between the UK and Nigeria.
