FCT Residents Grapple with Soaring Transport Fares Amid Petrol Price Surge!

Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (journalist) | Sele Media Africa

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed deep concern over the sharp increase in public transport fares, which have nearly doubled in recent days following a hike in petrol prices. The development has intensified the cost-of-living pressures on commuters, particularly low- and middle-income earners who rely on public transport for daily mobility.

According to reports from commuters in Abuja, taxi and bus operators have adjusted their charges in response to the recent fuel price review, which saw petrol prices rise significantly. Passengers now pay between ₦600 and ₦1,000 for short trips that previously cost between ₦300 and ₦500, with longer journeys attracting even steeper rates.

Many residents described the hike as “unsustainable,” warning that it could severely impact household budgets. “With food and utility costs already high, this increase in transport fares is pushing families to make difficult choices,” said one commuter at Wuse Market. Another passenger noted, “I now spend nearly double on transportation. It’s affecting my work and home life.”

Transport unions, while acknowledging the impact on commuters, defended the fare adjustments, citing rising operational costs linked to fuel prices. They have called on government authorities to intervene by regulating fare structures and providing palliative measures for vulnerable commuters.

Economic analysts have warned that persistent fuel price hikes coupled with rising transport costs may contribute to broader inflationary pressures, further straining household incomes. They advocate for targeted policy interventions to ease the burden on citizens, including subsidies or staggered fuel price adjustments.

The FCT Administration has yet to issue an official statement addressing the fare increases or measures to cushion the impact on residents. With public concern mounting, authorities are under pressure to provide clarity on potential interventions.

Sources: Channels Television, The Guardian Nigeria, Premium Times, Vanguard Nigeria, Punch Newspapers

Mustapha Labake Omowumi

Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.

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