As transportation costs continue to rise in Nigeria due to the recent hike in petrol prices, the situation has become a major concern for millions, particularly low-income earners. The daily commute to work, school, or the market has become a heavy financial burden.
For those already struggling to survive on limited earnings, the impact has been devastating. Public outcry has grown, with many Nigerians urging the government to address the escalating costs. The issue has fueled recent nationwide protests under the banner #EndBadGovernance, with demonstrations held across major cities demanding immediate action to ease the cost of living.
According to findings by DAILY POST, the increase in petrol prices has led to a rise in the cost of essential goods and services, worsening the financial strain on low-income earners. Petrol prices have surged to between N850 and N1,400 per liter, depending on the region, pushing many households to the brink.
In response, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Archbishop Matthew Kukah, urged President Bola Tinubu and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and reverse the fuel price hike. He remarked, “I once asked a girl if she belongs to APC, PDP, or Labour, and she said, ‘I am hungry.’ We Nigerians are hungry. Find a way to reduce fuel prices and secure the country. That will be the greatest legitimacy for any government.”
Similarly, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) criticized the increase, with President-General Yerima Shettima accusing the government of being out of touch with the realities facing Nigerians. He warned, “The government promised improvement but worsened the situation with a sudden fuel price hike. Angry and hungry Nigerians are being pushed to the wall.”
Several low-income earners spoke to DAILY POST about their struggles, expressing concerns over the financial impact. A sales representative, Amina Abubakar, shared her frustrations: “The petrol price increase has raised my transport costs, and now I can barely afford essentials like food and rent. We expected more from this government, but the reality is heartbreaking.”
FCT resident Eche John lamented that his daily transport costs have nearly doubled, while Abuja resident Glory Adetunji noted that the price of basic goods has risen along with transportation costs. Another low-income worker, Johnson Okpe, a Point of Sale (POS) attendant, said he might have to stop working due to the high cost of transport: “I don’t know how I’ll manage to feed and still afford transportation.”
The ripple effect of the fuel price hike has forced many to reconsider their employment, with a housekeeper, Ekaete Frederick, and private security worker, Hassan Abdul, both resigning due to the overwhelming cost of commuting.
Commercial motorcyclist Uche Emeka also noted a drop in passengers as more people opt to walk, further affecting their livelihood. Paul Owoicho, another commuter, warned that the situation could lead to an increase in crime as desperate people struggle to survive.
Many Nigerians are calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further hardships and restore stability to the economy.
Source: DAILY POST
