Benue Residents Demand Action on High Transport Fares

Residents of Benue, particularly in Makurdi, have voiced their dissatisfaction with the high transport fares that persist despite the Federal Government's announcement of a fuel discount of N1,350 per litre at filling stations owned by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Commercial bus driver Torna Samuel criticized the initiative, stating that it offers no real relief to Nigerians struggling with the high cost of living.

Trader Robert Oryima accused the government of using the discount as a superficial measure aimed at gaining votes ahead of the 2027 general elections, asserting that the government is aware of how to effectively reduce fuel prices but chooses not to act. Traveller Gabriel Tyowase echoed these sentiments, noting that transport fares remain unchanged despite the government's announcement.

The residents are calling for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the fuel pricing strategy to provide genuine relief.