The price of petrol has risen sharply across Nigeria, reaching as high as N1,500 per litre in several states, as the Nigeria Labour Congress called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene.
The NLC said petrol was selling for about N1,430 per litre in major cities, with prices higher in less accessible locations. Kano, Yobe, Sokoto, Borno, Taraba and Zamfara recorded prices of up to N1,500 per litre, while some locations in Taraba and other areas reported even higher prices.
The increases have also pushed up transport fares, with commercial tricycle operators in Kano raising fares by about 50 per cent. Motorists and residents in several states have reportedly parked their vehicles or switched to public transport because of the rising cost of fuel.
NLC President Joe Ajaero said the increase would worsen the cost of living, as higher transportation expenses typically translate into increased prices for food, rent, school fees and other essential services.
The labour union called for emergency measures, including reasonable wage awards for workers, increased crude oil supply to local refineries in naira and expansion of the country’s petroleum storage capacity. It also said government subsidies should not be ruled out during an emergency.
The latest increase followed a rise in the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s petrol gantry price from N1,265 to N1,350 per litre on September 12. The refinery has raised its gantry price four times since August 21, bringing the total increase to N185 per litre within 22 days.
Fuel marketers have also urged the Federal Government to intervene, warning that petrol could reach N2,000 per litre if international crude oil prices continue to rise.
