Nigeria’s president Jonathan announced increased petrol taxes on January 1st. This was done through the petroleum pricing and regulatory agency. This has brought about protests and uproar in Africa’s most populous country.
Amidst the tax increase, Nigerians are worried about the fact that the administration of President Jonathan cannot account for N9.6 trillion ($64 billion) of public funds since its inception last year. Many Nigerians are of the opinion the taxes were increased because the government was broke and in need of cash. President Jonathan has been accused of using public funds during his 2011 campaign.
The saddest part of all of this is that protesters in Nigeria have been maimed and killed. Reports also have it that some of the killings are premeditated. Africanliberty.org will bring you updates of this Nigerian crisis.