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The Native Consortium and Research Centre (NCRC) has reacted to the recent increase in fuel prices, questioning the justification behind the decision by the government and Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) to adjust the pump price despite lower global crude oil prices compared to previous increases.
In a statement attributed to the organisation, NCRC referenced the previous fuel price increase to Le35 and Le40 per litre, noting that at the time, global crude oil prices were around $110 per barrel. The organisation questioned why a similar price adjustment has been introduced when international crude prices are currently between $79 and $83 per barrel.
The group compared recent global oil prices with local pump prices, stating that in May, when crude oil was reportedly at $110 per barrel, fuel prices were increased to Le35/Le40 per litre. It added that when crude prices dropped to about $72 per barrel in July, pump prices remained around Le33/Le35 per litre, but an increase was later announced when prices moved to about $82 per barrel.
“Why do you have to bow to the pressure of the OMCs to increase the price back to Le35/Le40 when the global price is between $79 and $83 per barrel? What is the basis?” the group questioned.
NCRC also criticised explanations from the PRA and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) that reductions in crude oil prices do not always translate directly into lower refined fuel prices, describing the argument as inconsistent.
The organisation argued that authorities appear to apply different standards depending on whether global oil prices are rising or falling, claiming that neighbouring countries have maintained more stable pump prices compared to Sierra Leone.
“Government uses one rule when global prices drop and another rule when prices increase,” the statement said, adding that fuel costs continue to place pressure on ordinary citizens.
The Native Consortium further raised concerns over government revenue generated from petroleum products, claiming that the sector remains one of the biggest sources of state revenue since 2016.
According to the group, the government earns no less than Le9 from every litre of petroleum product sold, while describing reported fuel subsidies of Le2.11 and Le3.04 as questionable.
The organisation urged greater transparency from authorities and called for public accountability on fuel pricing decisions, as citizens continue to face rising living costs.
NCRC also linked the fuel debate to broader economic challenges, arguing that livelihood concerns should receive equal attention alongside ongoing national political discussions, including debates around the electoral system.
The group’s comments come amid growing public concern over the impact of fuel price adjustments on transportation costs, businesses, and household expenses across Sierra Leone.
