Commuters in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and various cities nationwide are expressing dissatisfaction with the surge in transportation costs due to the ongoing fuel scarcity.
There has been reports that fuel queues have intensified in numerous filling stations countrywide, with Abuja notably affected.
While some fortunate motorists managed to secure fuel at select retail outlets, others faced closures and supply challenges, enduring lengthy queues. This situation has exacerbated traffic congestion, particularly in Abuja and its environs, with significant delays and doubled transportation fares.
Independent oil marketers’ closures contributed to the crisis, with NNPC retail outlets retailing petrol at N617 per litre. The scarcity has led to black market sales, reaching as high as N1,200 per litre in certain FCT areas.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a warning of mass action if the government fails to promptly address the fuel scarcity, emphasizing the widespread frustration and helplessness among citizens, including students.
Billy Gillis-Harry, the National President of PETROAN, attributed the fuel scarcity to supply challenges from NNPC Limited, acknowledging efforts to resolve the issue. He clarified that logistics issues primarily affect NNPC retail outlets, not independent marketers.
Transportation fares have surged significantly in areas like Masaka, Ado, Mararaba, Jikwoyi, Karu, Nyanya, Lugbe, and Airport Road, leading to commuter distress and calls for urgent government intervention.
Commuters like Gabriel Olotu and Agnes voiced their frustrations over extended wait times and increased fares, highlighting the financial strain and inconvenience caused. Aisha Mohammed expressed concerns about having to walk due to limited funds, urging swift resolution to ease the burden on commuters.
Driver Sunday Adah condemned the government’s perceived indifference to citizens’ suffering, lamenting lost income and the challenges posed by the fuel crisis, despite the removal of fuel subsidies.
