The rising cost of petrol is taking a heavy toll on residents of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), forcing many car owners to abandon their vehicles and turn to public transportation—or even trekking—to cope with the growing economic pressure.
Findings by the News Agency of Nigeria reveal that once-busy routes such as the Kubwa Expressway and the Suleja–Madalla axis are now experiencing a noticeable drop in vehicular movement, particularly on weekdays. The shift marks a stark contrast to the usual heavy traffic and long commuting hours previously associated with these areas.
For many residents, the decision to stop using their cars is no longer optional but necessary. Sholape Kolawole, a public servant residing in Dutse Alhaji, shared her experience of parking her car indefinitely due to the high cost of fuel.
“It has been stressful using commercial vehicles. I have no choice since I cannot afford to fuel my car, and my salary is not enough to buy fuel every day to work,” she said. “To cut costs, I stopped using the car and now rely on public transport, which is still expensive, but more manageable.”
The ripple effects of the fuel hike are also being felt by transport operators and small business owners. James Obasi, a commercial transporter in Kubwa, noted that unpredictable increases in fuel prices have disrupted operations and reduced profitability.
“The fuel situation has increased at unexpected times, impacting many small businesses negatively,” he said, while calling on the Federal Government to implement policies that will ease the burden on citizens.
Another resident, Emmanuel Ajayi, lamented the physical and emotional strain caused by the situation, revealing that he has been unable to fuel his car for months.
“The stress of switching between multiple public transport options is taking a toll on my health. Purchasing power has dropped drastically, and many households can barely meet basic needs,” he explained.
Adding his voice, the National Coordinator of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), Emmanuel Onwubikor, described the petrol price hike as an “economic ambush” on Nigerians. He warned that the continued rise could force many small-scale businesses—including barbing salons, welding workshops, and petty traders—to shut down.
“This will trigger a dangerous surge in unemployment, particularly among youths and women, worsening social instability and insecurity,” he cautioned.
Onwubikor called on President Bola Tinubu to take urgent and decisive action to address the situation and prevent further hardship for Nigerians.
As the fuel crisis deepens, residents across the FCT are being forced to make difficult choices, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable economic solutions and relief measures.