Residents of Enugu have called on the Federal Government to reverse the recent hike in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in consideration of the masses’ hardships. The price was increased by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Retail Management from ₦617 per litre to ₦897 per litre, effective September 3, amid ongoing economic difficulties and fuel scarcity.
The NNPC Retail Management approved the price increase on Tuesday, resulting in immediate adjustments at NNPC retail stations, where pumps and price boards reflected the new PMS price of ₦897 per litre. This increase has exacerbated the already challenging economic situation in the country.
In interviews conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu, residents expressed their concerns and frustrations over the price hike.
Philip Ukoh, a commercial bus driver, noted that the increase would deepen the economic hardship already being experienced by Nigerians.
Ngozi Eze, a food vendor, lamented that the hike would inevitably lead to an increase in the prices of goods and services, stating that a plate of food, for instance, would likely rise from ₦1,200 to a higher price due to increased market costs.
Chike Onyekwere, a civil servant, criticized the government for raising fuel prices without implementing the new minimum wage, arguing that it was unfair to burden citizens further without addressing wage issues.
Isaac Igwe, a businessman, urged the government to resolve the situation, emphasizing that many Nigerians were struggling to feed their families.
Chioma Onuorah, a fashion designer, remained hopeful that local petrol production by the Dangote refinery might eventually lead to a reduction in fuel prices.
Meanwhile, Jude Chime, a fuel station manager at Agbani Road, explained that the product was scarce due to the high cost.
Residents of Enugu continue to appeal to the government to reconsider the price increase, highlighting the impact it is having on their daily lives.