Fuel Price Hike: Borno residents abandon vehicles for horses, bicycles

Following the recent hike in petroleum pump prices, residents of Borno State, including civil servants, have resorted to alternative modes of transportation such as trekking, horse riding, and using bicycles and tricycles.

A tour of Maiduguri, the state capital, revealed a significant decrease in vehicular traffic and a corresponding increase in pedestrians, horse riders, and cyclists on major roads.

Dadoon Pam, a graphic designer, expressed his frustration with the situation, stating that the increased cost of mobility has severely affected his business. “The price hike has affected me terribly. As a graphic designer, I need electricity to work, but now I have to rely on fuel. This means I have to charge my clients more, which will negatively impact my business.”

Jeremiah Blessing, an enumerator with a non-governmental organization, has adjusted her daily routine to cope with the situation. “I now break my journey into two parts, trekking halfway before boarding a tricycle. The fuel price increase has made it difficult for me to get to work on time, as I often have to wait up to 30 minutes for a tricycle.”

Retired customs officer Tuja Mai Abba has abandoned his vehicle in favor of commercial tricycles, citing cost savings for short distances.

“The government’s handling of the fuel subsidy and availability issue is confusing. I’ve abandoned my car for now, as it’s no longer feasible to use it.”

Daniel Omolara, a member of a non-governmental organization, expressed his concerns about the fuel price hike.

“I can no longer afford to drive my car, as the fuel price increase has made it unsustainable. I might have to push my car back home if I try to use it.”

Micheal Johnson, a private school teacher, has also resorted to trekking and cycling due to the increased tricycle fares.

“My school is nearby, so I walked there today. If the situation persists after resumption, I will have to wake up earlier to accommodate the new reality.”

The pump price increase, which took effect on Tuesday, saw prices rise to N855, N918, and higher per liter at NNPC stations across the country.

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