Motorists and commuters in Anambra State are expressing their dismay over the constant rise in the cost of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol.
The price of petrol has been erratic at various fuel stations across the state. On Friday, prices unexpectedly surged to N940 per litre at different stations, reaching N1,300 in the black market.
Many fuel stations in major cities like Onitsha, Ekwulobia, Nnewi, and Awka are selling petrol between N880 and N940 per litre. Only NNPCL stations were observed selling below N880, albeit with long queues.
Transportation fares have become unpredictable due to these fluctuations, burdening commuters with higher costs.
Consequently, this surge has had a negative impact on community prices, particularly on food items, as vendors justify hiking their prices citing the “high cost of transportation.”
Our correspondent’s investigation revealed that commuters often find themselves stranded at bus stops and motor parks due to commercial drivers now operating primarily during peak hours to recover their increased fuel expenses quickly.
In separate interviews with our correspondent, some drivers shared how the current petrol prices have compelled them to raise fares and operate only during peak demand periods.
One driver, Mr. Chinedu Obinwa, operating on the busy Upper Iweka-Nnewi route, lamented, “We are facing hardships, spending a large portion of our earnings on vehicle repairs and fuel purchases.
“Due to this situation, we now operate mainly during peak hours to recoup our fuel costs. Drivers are essentially working for fuel station owners and spare parts dealers, given the meager daily earnings we make.
“The majority of our income is directed towards vehicle maintenance and fuel purchase. Passengers are now reducing their travel due to the high transportation costs, impacting our business significantly. Hopefully, the authorities can address this frequent petrol price escalation.”
Another driver, Ike Ebuka, urged the Federal Government to urgently repair and revive the country’s refineries, emphasizing that domestic production would make fuel more affordable.
“If we prioritize refining locally over importing, fuel prices would be more reasonable. The current scenario of struggling to settle bills and maintenance costs is unsustainable. Passengers are now scarce on the roads due to inflated fares.
“The economic challenges are affecting everyone, and the government must intervene to alleviate the public’s hardship.”
Expressing her concerns, commuter Nkechi Eche remarked, “The escalating fuel crisis is alarming, and it appears those in charge are indifferent. This national ordeal is a disgrace, with leaders showcasing their opulence while the populace suffers.
“Our citizens endure immense hardship while politicians send their families abroad. Only divine judgment can right the wrongs our leaders perpetuate.”
Additionally, a petrol station manager in Onitsha (name withheld) disclosed, “We received instructions from a sister station to halt operations temporarily and recalibrate our pricing due to NNPCL’s quiet pump price adjustment.
“We complied with the directive on Thursday by suspending sales, and the revised price of N920 per litre was enforced on Friday. Our actions are guided by directives; we are not the decision-makers in this matter.”