The ongoing petrol scarcity in Nigeria has escalated with sharp increases in fuel prices, creating widespread disruptions in Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities. On September 3, 2024, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) adjusted the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N855 per litre in Lagos and N897 in Abuja. The price hike has been accompanied by severe shortages, forcing motorists to queue for hours at the few operational filling stations, further straining daily activities.

Across the country, transportation costs have surged by over 50%, aggravating the economic burden on citizens. In Abuja, Lagos, and other urban centres, commuters expressed frustration, citing unaffordable fare hikes. For example, in Abuja, fares from Zuba to Berger increased from N1,000 to N1,500, while inter-city routes like Abuja to Kano saw fares rise from N8,000 to N11,000. Similar spikes in transport costs were observed in cities such as Port Harcourt and Kano, where many residents resorted to trekking due to the high prices.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has warned that the petrol price hike could fuel inflation, further weakening consumer purchasing power and pushing the economy into deeper crisis. According to MAN, the cost of goods and services is expected to rise as businesses pass on increased transportation and production costs to consumers.

In response to the crisis, various organizations and political groups, including the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have called for an immediate reversal of the price hike. Both groups have criticized the government for worsening the plight of Nigerians, already suffering under severe economic challenges.

Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has condemned the fuel price hike, demanding its reversal and warning of potential social unrest. Similarly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans for mass protests across major cities beginning September 15, urging the government to address the fuel crisis and remove NNPCL’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, from office.

The situation remains dire as transport disruptions, inflationary pressures, and growing public discontent intensify, threatening to plunge Nigeria into further economic instability.