Traders and commuters in the Kano metropolis have expressed worry over the recent hike in the pump price of petrol.

NNPC retail management had on Tuesday approved an upward review of the pump price from N617 per litre to N897 litre, effective from September 3, amid economic hardship and persistent fuel scarcity.

Checks revealed that the NNPC retail stations immediately adjusted their pumps and totems (price boards), reflecting the new petrol price of N897 against N617 per litre. Petrol now sells between N970 and N1,150.

The increase has drawn criticisms from the public.

Kano residents lamented that the adjustment would exacerbate the already high cost of living and deepen the economic struggles many Nigerians face.

Abubakar Saleh, a teacher, noted that the current fuel situation was worrisome.

“An increase in the price of fuel means an increase in the price of everything again. Things have not been the same since the removal of the fuel subsidy, and to worsen the situation, the pump price was increased without prior notice,” he said.

Shehu Aminu, a civil servant, said the fuel price hike would reduce workers’ purchasing power.

“This increase will escalate the price of many things, including transportation fares, making it difficult for workers to commute efficiently to work,” he said.

He urged the federal government to pay the minimum wage and implement measures to alleviate the financial strain on citizens.

Nana Muhammad, a hairdresser, expressed worry that the fuel increase would lead to a rise in food prices, which had recently begun to stabilise due to harvest.

“Traders will likely exploit the situation by inflating the prices of goods,” Ms Muhammad said.

Meanwhile, a trader, Lawan Hussaini, urged the government to prioritise the welfare of its citizens when formulating policies, suggesting that the current measures fell short of addressing the immediate needs of the populace.

He emphasised the increased financial burden on households, particularly those dependent on a single income.

Commercial motorcyclists have also increased their fares from one area to the other within the state capital. 

(NAN)