Commercial transport operators hike fares as petrol stations shut outlets
Commercial bus and Tricycle operators in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, on Monday, increased transport fares as petrol stations shut down business following the withdrawal of services by members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
Some routes, for example, from Ibom Plaza to the University of Uyo permanent site, situated along Nwaniba Road, which used to attract a N200 fare, now cost between N250 and N300.
Also, from Ibom Plaza to Itam Flyover, which was N100 as of Sunday (yesterday), now goes for N150, an increase of 50 per cent.
A commercial mini-bus operator, Anietie Akpan, told PREMIUM TIMES Monday morning that maintaining the old price was impossible, as they bought fuel at N1,000 per litre at the black market.
Another mini-bus operator, Henry Oton, said he bought petrol for N1,050 at the black market.
“Petrol stations have all closed down. Go round, you will see. As you can see, the number of vehicles on the road is few,” Mr Oton told this newspaper, describing owners of petrol outlets as “wicked and greedy.”
“Let my car rest. They are selling fuel at N1,000 per litre. I am not driving,” Emmanuel Effiong said, adding that he has resorted to trekking.