Motorists in the Federal Capital Territory have called on the Federal Government to urgently step in over the worsening economic hardship caused by rising fuel prices.
They said the continuous increase in petrol prices has pushed up transportation costs and deepened the daily struggles of residents.
According to reports, fuel pump prices have risen significantly in recent months, with stations now selling petrol at between N1,364 and N1,440 per litre, depending on the outlet.
Many commercial drivers said the situation has made it difficult to operate profitably, forcing some to park their vehicles or reduce trips due to high running costs.
A driver, Mr Adewale Bello, said the frequent fuel price changes have reduced his income and made it hard to sustain his family responsibilities, noting that passengers are also fewer as fares rise.
Another commuter, Mrs Bisi Emmanuel, said transport costs have almost doubled, severely affecting her monthly budget and forcing her to cut down on daily movement.
“I now spend almost double what I used to pay for transportation; it is affecting my ability to meet other basic needs.
“My salary cannot meet my monthly expenses. I have children to feed, school fees to pay, house rent to pay, medical bills, and I have aged parents to take care of. We need the government’s intervention urgently.
“Even with your money, there are no vehicles because taxi drivers are complaining that they are not making any profit.
“Now I go to work twice a week, and this is affecting my productivity,” she said.
Other drivers also urged the government to introduce relief measures such as subsidies or transport support, warning that the rising fuel cost is driving up food prices and inflation.
An Uber driver, Osas Pascal, said he has stopped working due to losses, explaining that fuel expenses now outweigh his earnings.
Economic experts also warned that the continued rise in fuel prices is worsening inflation and increasing the cost of living, urging government intervention to stabilise the situation.