Nigeria grapples with a multitude of challenges that have plagued its citizens, tracing back to the abrupt removal of fuel subsidy. This decision led to a surge in economic difficulties and insecurity, resulting in a persistent surge in prices for goods and services. The dire situation has left the average Nigerian unable to afford complete meals in a day. Tragically, the nation is also witnessing an alarming increase in various forms of social unrest, including rampant killings, rape, theft, and other societal ills. This unsettling scenario paints a grim picture, as economic hardship and insecurity seem to compete in an unwelcome race to dominance.
The harsh economic reality, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and the faltering Naira, has instilled a palpable fear for life among the populace. A chilling account from James Okechukeu, residing along Ada George Road and conducting business at Mile Three, highlights the perilous encounters with bandits. He recounted a harrowing incident wherein he boarded a seemingly ordinary minibus, only to find himself surrounded by criminals posing as passengers. Swiftly, the vehicle sped away to an undisclosed location. Robbed of his money, cellphone, and ATM card, Okechukeu was abandoned on a remote track road. His attempts to salvage the situation proved futile, as his bank account was drained before he could block the compromised ATM card.
The city of Port Harcourt paints a grim picture, with instances of robbery plaguing almost every street. Kidnappings, break-ins, rapes, and other social offenses occur daily, all symptoms of the prevailing economic hardship. Shockingly, a bus driver confessed his involvement in theft, citing the fuel price increase as a driving factor. The Afikpo Street Market has also turned into a hotbed of car theft, with a recent incident involving a stolen vehicle parked near the Assemblies of God Church. These anecdotes underscore the alarming levels of criminality that have emerged.
In a candid conversation with our reporters, social analyst Bonny Ama shed light on the two central issues afflicting Nigeria: poverty induced by economic hardship and escalating insecurity. Ama emphasized the urgent need to reconsider the fuel subsidy removal or expedite the repair of refineries to alleviate the citizens’ plight. In his heartfelt appeal directed at both Federal and State Governments, he urged them to address the pressing challenges faced by the nation’s people. Furthermore, he stressed that urgent action is demanded to curb the widespread killings that loom over the nation, as the intertwined threats of poverty and insecurity cast a shadow over Nigeria’s future.
