Nigerians Will Never Accept Removal Of Fuel Subsidy – ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU said yesterday that removal of fuel subsidy would never go down well with Nigerians and such move will never be supported.

Speaking through its national treasurer, Dr Ademola Aremu, in a lecture entitled, “Clamour for fuel subsidy removal: In whose interest?”, at the pre-May Day lecture organised by journalists in Oyo State, the union said government would not curry the favour of the union until knotty issues surrounding the petroleum industry were resolved.

Aremu noted that subsidy could not be removed from fuel without tackling other policies and socio-economic issues which could re-ignite the faith of Nigerians in their leaders.

“The starting point of this would be the removal of corruption which has become second nature to oil business in Nigeria, albeit a general characteristic of the business the world over. This could only be achieved through government accountability to its citizens.”

“Is it possible for government to give a near estimate of the crude oil being explored in Nigeria on daily, weekly or other such periodic basis? Can Nigerians be made aware of the amount of money invested in refining the crude oil produce? Can the memoranda of understanding between the international oil companies and the Nigerian government be made public with the rules of engagement stated in black and white?” he asked, stressing that if these were done, the government may have a good case on removal of fuel subsidy.