When Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole paid an unscheduled visit to a number of petrol stations in Benin City, last week, he ordered the immediate closure of those selling the commodity above the official pump price of N70 per litre. He also ordered the arrest of the managers of the stations. This action came at a time the demand for fuel was very high; the sellers had taken advantage of the festive season to oppress the masses. In all the states except Lagos and Abuja, fuel is still sold above the normal price.

Comrade Oshiomhole's action is therefore a step in the right direction. He must intensify efforts to rid his state of shylocks not only in the petroleum sector but in all other sectors where they may be lurking. President Umaru Yar'Adua and other governors that wish to institute populist regimes should emulate him. Rather than pay mere lip service to serious social problems, our leaders should take genuine actions to help the suffering masses. The people's response to Governor Oshiomhole's action shows that, indeed, they are tired of mere rhetoric.