“Fuel Price Drops Validate My Calculations” – Edmond Abu Urges PRA to Act

The recent reduction in fuel prices by several private filling stations across Sierra Leone has sparked renewed calls for a nationwide cut in the official pump price.

Among the strongest voices is consumer rights advocate Edmond Abu Jr., who says the current trend validates his long-standing position that fuel dealers can sell at lower prices and still make profit.

In a statement issued following noticeable drops at various stations, including Zala and Rokel Texaco, Abu said, “The reduction in fuel prices proves my calculations were right that dealers can sell at Le22 or Le23 and still make profit.”

Zala, known for often leading in price reductions, has reduced its pump price for petrol and diesel to Le24. Meanwhile, Rokel’s Texaco station has gone a step further, now selling at Le23, making it the most affordable among major providers.

According to Abu, this is a clear sign that the fuel reduction revolution, championed by a consortium of concerned citizens and activists, is beginning to work in favor of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. He called on the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) to redeem its image by matching this trend with a national price reduction to Le23 flat.

“Are we asking for too much, Papa President?” Abu questioned. “If Leonco and others can sell at Le23 and still make profit, why can’t the government adjust the official price?”

Abu highlighted inconsistencies in the pricing practices of major dealers, accusing some of exploiting consumers while offering lower rates to government or private institutions. He pointed specifically to NP, claiming it had been selling at Le24 to Waka Fine buses since last year while charging the public Le27.

“Texaco gets 5 points for selling at Le23. NP and Zala get 4 points each for selling at Le24. Government and PRA zero points, still selling at Le27,” Abu said humorously, calling on consumers to be vigilant and reward stations offering fair prices.

He warned the public against being misled by sudden, short-lived price cuts like the one LeoneCo implemented three weeks ago. “The corporate gangsters are exposing PRA as ineffective. They care more about profits than the suffering public,” he added.

Edmond Abu, who has led multiple campaigns under the African Consumer Organisation (ACO), has long criticized what he calls “corporate manipulation” of fuel prices under the current administration. He reiterated his earlier advocacy for tax breaks and pricing reforms.

As the gap widens between the official price of Le27 and what some dealers are already charging voluntarily, pressure mounts on the PRA to act.

For Abu and many Sierra Leoneans, the message is clear: the market has spoken and a Le23 national fuel price is both fair and sustainable.