The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately reverse the latest increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol.

The forum said the price hike had come at a difficult time for millions of Nigerians already dealing with worsening economic challenges, including rising transportation costs, unemployment, insecurity, food inflation and declining purchasing power.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, NOSCEF expressed concern over the decision to increase the cost of petrol while households across the country continue to struggle with higher living expenses.

The Christian elders argued that the government should explore other sustainable ways of generating revenue rather than placing additional financial pressure on citizens.

According to the forum, any measures aimed at increasing government revenue should take into consideration the economic realities facing ordinary Nigerians.

NOSCEF also appealed to President Tinubu to use the remaining period of his administration to implement measures capable of easing economic hardship and improving the standard of living of citizens.

The group urged the government to focus on restoring purchasing power, creating employment opportunities, strengthening national security and addressing critical infrastructure challenges.

While acknowledging that the Tinubu administration had taken steps in some areas, the forum maintained that the level of hardship being experienced by Nigerians indicated the need for further action.

NOSCEF said its members remain closely connected to communities across the northern states and therefore have firsthand knowledge of the difficulties confronting households.

The forum ultimately appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider the petrol price increase and introduce measures that would reduce the economic burden on Nigerians.