Many Nigerians are still grappling with worsening economic hardship as Christians across the country prepare for the Easter celebration.
Several residents who spoke with our reporter attributed the rising cost of living to the recent increase in fuel pump prices, with petrol now selling for about ₦1,300 or more per litre in some areas. Cooking gas prices have also surged, with a kilogram reportedly selling for ₦1,350 and above.
According to them, the increase in fuel prices has triggered a sharp rise in transportation fares, which has in turn pushed up the cost of food items and other essential goods.
A trader, Mr. Kingsley Mba, lamented that although the prices of goods have increased, sales have drastically declined due to the low purchasing power of many Nigerians.
He said many families are struggling to make ends meet as poverty continues to worsen.
Mr. Mba appealed to the Rivers State Government to introduce empowerment programmes for youths, noting that such initiatives could help reduce the hardship faced by many families and also curb insecurity.
Also speaking, a commercial minibus driver, Mr. Akpan Imoh, said the economic situation is affecting everyone, including transport operators.
According to him, drivers are often blamed for increased transport fares, even though the rise is largely driven by the high cost of fuel.
He explained that after paying the vehicle owner and meeting other operational expenses, many drivers are left with little or no profit.
Mr. Imoh warned that the prevailing economic challenges could significantly affect this year’s Easter celebration, as many families may not have the resources to celebrate.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the fuel price situation to ease the burden on Nigerians.
