Nigerians Face Soaring Transport Fares and Food Prices Amid Economic Crisis
Nigerians are grappling with severe economic strain following a dramatic increase in fuel prices, which soared from approximately N800 to N1,150 per litre after the removal of fuel subsidies.
This latest hike has exacerbated the already challenging living conditions, prompting widespread lamentations about escalating hunger and transport costs.
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Residents across major cities like Abuja and Lagos reported a surge in transport fares, with intra-city rates rising by N100 and inter-state fares increasing by as much as N1,000.
Donald Eke, a Lagos-based worker, described how his daily commute costs have more than doubled, stating, “The fare has been increasing steadily, but since the recent fuel hike, a trip that used to cost N300 now costs N700.”
The price of essential goods has also skyrocketed. In Ogun State, passengers noted a 100% increase in fares, with many now paying between N1,000 to N1,400 for routes that previously cost much less. Affected commuters are struggling to keep up with their transportation expenses, leading to frustrations over their dwindling incomes.
In Osun State, transport operators raised fares significantly, with one resident reporting that the price for inter-state travel had jumped dramatically. “Commuters are now paying N5,000 to N8,000 for some routes, which is unmanageable for many families,” said Kazeem Badmus.
Food prices have followed suit, with staples like rice and flour seeing steep increases. A bag of rice that was N80,000 has now risen to N100,000, and yam flour prices have escalated from N400,000 to N550,000 in just two weeks.
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On social media, Nigerians have expressed their despair, with many calling the situation untenable. A viral song by artist Nasboi encapsulates the public sentiment, lamenting the increasing scarcity of food and rising costs. Dr. Hafsatu Danladi criticized the government, stating, “It is heartbreaking to watch a government so out of touch with the pain of its own people.”
Activists have also begun organizing protests against the fuel price hikes, demanding immediate government action. Juwon Sanyaolu, a protest leader, remarked, “The continuous hike in fuel prices reflects how out of touch the Nigerian government is with the needs of its citizens.”
As the economic crisis deepens, many Nigerians find themselves increasingly vulnerable, with essential goods becoming luxuries and everyday survival growing more difficult.
