Residents of Jos, Plateau’s capital, have expressed frustration over the ongoing rise in transport fares, despite a reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Many residents said that transportation costs remain high, even though fuel prices have fallen. This, they argue, is exacerbating the financial burdens of ordinary Nigerians.
Following the reduction of the ex-depot price of petrol by Dangote Refinery in December 2024, many expected transport fares to decrease. However, prices have continued to rise instead.
Philp Dasar, a civil servant, noted that the high cost of transportation is putting a strain on households, especially as transport fares have yet to reflect the decline in fuel prices.
“Fuel prices are now lower, but fares are still going up,” Dasar said. “When fuel subsidy was removed, transport fares increased, and now that the price is gradually reducing, we expect fares to follow suit, but they are not.”
Similarly, traders like Mrs. Roseline Dakuk noted that high transport costs are driving up the prices of goods, particularly foodstuffs, which remain expensive despite the drop in fuel prices.
Jos resident Josiah Sati called on the government to implement price controls to prevent such price hikes from persisting, stating that once prices rise, they rarely fall again.
A student from the University of Jos, Blessing Alex, praised the Plateau government for introducing metro buses and revitalising train services, which have provided some relief. However, she still urged the government to ensure commercial drivers do not overcharge commuters.
