A surge in transportation expenses within Enugu has elicited distress among residents, compelling many to endure long daily treks due to the escalating costs, according to a monitoring report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The situation, closely observed on Monday, has driven numerous struggling individuals to cover considerable distances on foot, exposing them to additional risks. Commuters expressed grievances over the intensified transportation expenses, citing the removal of fuel subsidies and the absence of palliative measures for the past five months as key contributors to the unfolding hardship.
The price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, witnessed another slight increase, further burdening Enugu metropolis residents. Petrol prices rose from the official rate of ₦650 per litre to ₦665 and ₦670 in most fuel stations in Enugu, with Nsukka and Oji River areas recording prices ranging from ₦670 to ₦680 per litre.
Transport operators, acknowledging the plight of the people, cited the high cost of fuel and the daily government levy, now increased to ₦400 per day, as factors influencing the elevated transport charges. Despite recognizing the hardships faced by commuters, operators felt powerless to alter the situation due to the prevailing exorbitant fuel costs.
Tricycle operators, in particular, noted a more than 100% increase in transportation expenses, prompting a fare adjustment. Short distances that previously cost ₦50 now command ₦100 for the least fare charged by commercial tricycles.
Lamentably, students, particularly those attending schools far from their residences, are left to traverse several kilometers on foot, magnifying the hardships they endure.
Residents expressed disappointment in the absence of government plans to alleviate the effects of the fuel subsidy removal, even five months after the decision was implemented. Concerns were raised about the state government’s apparent disregard for the challenges residents face, with calls for measures to mitigate the hardship and provide relief to the citizens.
Amid the struggles, a plea was directed at the state government to consider implementing transport palliatives for workers, given the disparity in pay scales, labeling Enugu state civil servants as the least paid across the country. Residents anticipate meaningful actions to address the prevailing challenges and await the realization of the federal government-approved palliative measures.
