Transporters operating in the Omi-Adio axis of Ibadan are facing significant challenges due to the acute fuel scarcity in the area, which has resulted in the shutdown of most petroleum stations. This has forced transporters to venture into other areas in search of fuel, leading to increased costs and reduced earnings.
According to motorcycle riders in the area, the situation is dire, with long queues at the few operational fuel stations making it difficult for them to access fuel. As a result, many are forced to purchase fuel from independent petroleum stations at exorbitant rates of N800 to N850 per liter, despite the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) selling fuel at the regulated rate of N580.
The fuel scarcity has also led to a hike in transportation costs, with transporters increasing their fares to mitigate the effects of the high fuel prices. However, this has resulted in a significant loss of customers to cab drivers, who offer cheaper rates.
“We used to make at least N3000 with N1000 worth of fuel, but now we barely make N2000 with the same amount,” lamented a motorcycle rider. Another transporter echoed this sentiment, stating that the increased fuel prices have forced them to raise their fares, leading to a decline in customer patronage.
The situation highlights the need for urgent intervention to address the fuel scarcity and mitigate its effects on transporters and commuters in the area.
Report from JEDIDAH OGIDI for IbadanCity ANNOUNCER
