Fuel Hike Sparks Fresh Worries Among Consumers in Zaria

Fuel Hike Sparks Fresh Worries Among Consumers in Zaria

ZARIA -  Residents of Zaria in Kaduna State have expressed concern over the recent increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, saying the development has worsened the cost of living.

Some of the consumers who spoke with our correspondent said the hike has further strained household budgets, coming at a time when many families are still grappling with the economic effects of fuel subsidy removal three years ago.
According to them, the persistent rise in petrol prices has triggered a chain reaction in transportation costs, food prices and other essential services, thereby deepening the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.

One of the consumers said the situation has become unbearable for low and middle-income earners.
“The increase in fuel price has become a serious burden to us,” a resident said. “Since the removal of subsidy, our expenses have continued to rise while our income remains the same.”

Another consumer blamed frequent policy changes and the rising cost of goods for the pressure on households.
“We are worried that policies keep changing and prices of essential commodities keep going up,” the consumer stated. “It is becoming difficult for families to cope, especially those with low and middle incomes.” The residents appealed to the Federal and State Governments as well as the National Assembly to step up efforts aimed at easing economic hardship and safeguarding citizens’ welfare.

They also urged petroleum marketers to demonstrate fairness in adjusting to the new price regime. “We appeal to marketers to consider the masses by selling their old stock at the previous price before applying the new price,” a consumer said. “Immediately transferring the new price to consumers is unfair.”

The consumers noted that without urgent intervention, the rising cost of petrol would continue to have a ripple effect on the economy and further erode the purchasing power of Nigerians.