Former presidential aide cites rising UK fuel costs and Middle East tensions to argue that soaring petrol prices are part of a global economic crisis, not unique to Nigeria.

Reno Omokri has stirred fresh conversations over fuel subsidy removal and global energy costs after claiming that petrol prices in England have climbed to the equivalent of ₦3,200 per litre — nearly three times the average price currently paid in Nigeria.

In a video recorded shortly after arriving at Heathrow Airport Terminal 2, Omokri argued that rising petrol prices are not peculiar to Nigeria but part of a wider global trend fueled by geopolitical tensions and instability in the Middle East.

UK Fuel Prices Rising

Speaking with a cab driver during the journey, Omokri asked about the current cost of fuel in the United Kingdom.

The driver explained that diesel prices were nearing £2 per litre, while petrol sold between £1.65 and £1.85 per litre, depending on location and station.

According to the driver, fuel prices had increased sharply compared to previous months, when diesel averaged about £1.40 per litre and petrol sold between £1.30 and £1.36 per litre.

Using the figures provided, Omokri estimated that diesel prices had risen by about 35 per cent, while petrol prices increased by roughly 32 per cent — calculations the driver agreed with during the conversation.

“Fuel Crisis Is Global”

Omokri said the exchange highlighted the reality that soaring fuel prices are affecting countries across the world, regardless of whether they produce crude oil.

He linked the increases to growing instability in the Middle East, stressing that international oil market disruptions often trigger spikes in refined petroleum costs globally.

According to him, many Nigerians wrongly assume that being an oil-producing nation should automatically guarantee cheap petrol.

He argued that even countries with active oil production, such as the United Kingdom, still experience sharp fuel price increases due to global market forces.

Oil Production Does Not Guarantee Cheap Fuel

During the discussion, the cab driver also noted that the UK produces between 700,000 and one million barrels of crude oil daily, yet consumers continue to face rising fuel costs.

Omokri said the video was intended to counter what he described as misinformation surrounding fuel pricing and subsidy debates in Nigeria.

He maintained that understanding global economic realities is essential for informed public discourse, especially as energy prices continue to fluctuate worldwide.