Commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Ibadan have called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently address the growing hardship caused by the recent increase in petrol prices.

A survey conducted by our correspondent in Ibadan showed that the price of a litre of petrol, which previously sold for about N840, has risen sharply to between N1,130 and N1,300 as of Thursday. The increase has triggered a rise in transport fares, with passengers now paying an additional N200 to N300 for many routes.

A tricycle operator, Mr. Peter Adewale, said the rising fuel cost has made it difficult for commercial drivers to remain profitable while still accommodating struggling passengers. According to him, operators are caught between the need to raise fares and the reality that many commuters can no longer afford higher transport costs.

A trader, Mrs. Efunsunmbo Ayinde, warned that the continued increase in petrol prices could lead to a surge in food prices, as traders rely heavily on transportation to move goods to markets. She noted that many Nigerians who depend on daily earnings, including artisans and sachet water vendors, are among those most affected by the situation.

Similarly, a government worker, Mr. Simeon Andrew, said the fuel price hike has significantly increased his daily commuting expenses. He explained that his transport cost to and from work has risen from about N3,000 to N5,000 daily, despite the absence of any salary increment.

Andrew urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to implement measures to cushion the impact of the rising petrol price on citizens, noting that many Nigerians are already grappling with severe economic pressure.