SAPELE/Nigeria: Residents of Sapele are struggling to cope with the relentless surge in fuel prices, which has exacerbated their already dire economic conditions. The cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, has soared to unprecedented levels, ranging from N925 to N980 per liter, depending on the filling station.
This spike in fuel prices has set off a chain reaction, driving up the costs of transportation, food, and other essential commodities. The resulting strain on daily life has made survival increasingly difficult for the average Sapele resident.
Commuters now face significantly higher fares, while motorists grapple with the burden of skyrocketing fuel costs. Madam Mabel Nosa, a local resident who depends on public transportation, voiced her frustration, saying, “I don’t know how much more we can endure. The fare from my house to the market has increased by over 50% in just a few weeks. How are we supposed to survive this continuous increase in daily living costs?”
The situation is even more critical for those who rely on generators for power, as the cost of fueling them has become prohibitive. Marvellous Elege, a small business owner, lamented the impact on his livelihood: “I spend over N10,000 daily to fuel my generator, which is a significant portion of my income. If the federal government doesn’t address this situation, many businesses will collapse.”
Amid this growing hardship, residents are calling on the federal government to take swift action to curb the rising fuel prices. Many attribute the crisis to the government’s failure to maintain the country’s refineries and ensure an adequate fuel supply.
Mr. Louis Usini echoed the frustrations of many, stating, “We’re tired of the situation in this country. The federal government needs to take concrete steps to address this issue. The continuous increase in petrol prices is causing more hardship for everyone.”
As the situation worsens, Sapele residents are left wondering if there is any hope for relief from the relentless fuel price hikes that have become a constant source of worry and hardship in their daily lives.
