During his inaugural address on May 29, Nigeria’s new president, Bola Tinubu, declared that fuel subsidies would be eliminated, which in turn led to a fuel price hike. The announcement caused widespread panic-buying, even as pump prices increased to an astounding 550 per litre.
In Edo State, the fuel price hike has had adverse effects on the economy. Prices of transportation have increased as people are trying to make sense of this new dispensation. We spoke to some respondents about their experiences so far.
Christopher, 26
Last week, I went out. I spent 6k on taxi to Kada and I live at Country Home Road area. That used to be an 800 naira ride. Bolt said 1500 but it ended up being 2100. And coming back ended up being 4000 as I had to pay twice. I have decided I’ll just be entering bus because this Tinubu era is not for the weak. If I had to say anything to the government, it is Lahor. Nor be so o.
Toxic, 24
The fuel price hike has affected me very badly. I am sleeping through heat because can’t afford fuel to put on the generator through the night. The highest I have paid for fuel right now is 560. I don’t have anything to say to the new government.
Aisosa, 27
It is not a joking matter o. I am thinking of quitting my job cos I cannot afford to be paying that amount every day to work. And my boss has already said he is not increasing salaries because of the hike. I have even packed my small gen in one corner because I’m not interested in buying 1 or 2 litres of fuel that will not carry me anywhere. The only upside is that I have a good excuse not to go out. I’d say to the new government: be people-oriented abeg.
Omoye, 21
Before the new price came into effect, my daily commute to school was 900 but now it’s 1500 and these days it is very difficult to get a bus. Thinking of getting an Uber is not even an option these days because the prices are not friendly at all. I have had to pay as much as 550 per litre for fuel.
Odia, 25
It’s not been nice at all because you can’t be okay knowing that you spend over 15k buying fuel every week. It’s just too much of a luxury in an economy such as this. I have spent as much as 520 per litre. I’d advise the government to find as quickly as possible a lasting solution to mitigate the impacts of this policy
How has the recent fuel hike affected you? Let us know in the comment.
Chris gets paid 20k but manages to be the highest paid teacher in his school, read his story here.
Leave a Comment