CAN on fuel scarcity: This looks like an attempt to sabotage Christmas celebrations

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says the scarcity of petrol is an attempt to sabotage the celebration of Christmas.

In the last three weeks, Nigerians have been finding it difficult to get petroleum products.

In a statement on Saturday, Kwamkur Samuel, director legal and public affairs, wondered why the scarcity of the petroleum products occurred during the Christmas celebration.

Samuel called on President Muhammadu Buhari to take measures to ensure that the product is made available.

“CAN is worried about the resurfacing of long queues at filling stations in Nigeria, after several increases in fuel price to ensure the availability of the product to all citizens,” the statement read.

“We are not only concerned that this seeming artificial scarcity happens mostly during Christmas period. We are also disturbed that everything is looking like an attempt to deliberately sabotage the celebration of Christmas by some people.

“We wonder why queues would suddenly resurface after all assurances and steps have been taken towards constant availability of petroleum product.

“We want to call on President Muhammadu Buhari, the ministry of petroleum and other relevant stakeholders to take decisive measures towards ensuring that fuel is made available and accessible to all citizens within the shortest possible time at a controlled price.”

He said the failure of government to take measures against saboteurs is unacceptable to the church.

“Christmas season does not just happen; it is a worldwide annual celebration that is known to everyone. For authorities to behave like the season came suddenly and fail to take necessary measures to control the activities of saboteurs is unacceptable to the Church,” he said.

“We deeply view the negligence of relevant authorities to ensure fuel availability to citizens as deliberate and an attempt to exploit the citizens and particularly Christians who travel distances for the celebration.

“As we celebrate, let us all be security-conscious and remember the persecuted church in Adamawa, Kaduna, Borno and all other parts of Nigeria in our prayers and gifts.

“May we never forget to celebrate this Christmas with the reason for the season — the birth of the saviour of the world, Jesus Christ our Lord. Merry Christmas to all Nigerians and a prosperous New Year.”