Transport costs in Abia State surged by 50% on Tuesday, February 20, as petrol station owners adjusted pump prices, prompting inter and intra-state transport companies to increase fares.
The adjustment began over the weekend, with petrol stations raising prices from ₦680-₦700, and by Monday, some outlets were selling at ₦800-₦850, according to observations by MAGIC FM.
On Tuesday, Total filling station at Brass junction dispensed fuel at ₦665 per litre, while other major marketers sold between ₦850-₦1000 per litre, causing long queues.
The impact of the fuel price hike was felt more in the state capital, Umuahia, where residents struggled to find Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) at petrol stations.
In response, intracity transporters raised fares by ₦50-₦100, while intercity bus companies increased fares by ₦500-₦1000, prompting many private car owners to opt for commercial transport to cut costs.
The spike in fuel prices led to reduced traffic in Aba, the commercial hub of the state, on Tuesday.
Passengers expressed concern over the hike, urging government and petroleum stakeholders to address the economic crisis and mitigate its impact on the people.
