Commuters in Cross River State are appealing to the government to provide free or subsidized bus services as transportation costs soar following the latest fuel price hike, a burden already being felt across the state capital.
The call for help follows reports that the steep rise in fares is making daily travel unaffordable for many low-income commuters, with travel from Ekpo Abasi to Marian jumping from ₦300 to ₦500, while trips from Ekpo Abasi to Watt Market now cost ₦300, up from ₦200
The fare surge comes after petrol prices climbed to ₦1,350 per litre, putting enormous pressure on low-income earners. Many commuters are reportedly walking long distances under the scorching sun to cope with the rising cost of transport.
“I spend almost double what I used to on transport every day,” said Archibong Effiom, a resident. “It’s affecting my feeding and other basic needs. The government must step in to help.”
Another commuter, Joseph Eyo, described the situation as “harsh,” noting that many now alight midway and walk the rest of their journey to save money.
While commercial drivers cite high fuel costs as the reason for fare increases, residents argue the burden is unsustainable.
With Easter just around the corner, calls have intensified for the government to revive free or subsidized bus services, similar to relief measures provided during Christmas. Maria Okpa, a commuter, said, “During Christmas, the government provided buses and it helped residents move around easily. They should do the same for Easter.”
Beyond temporary relief, residents urged the state government to implement long-term strategies to protect commuters from the recurring impact of fuel price volatility on the cost of living.
Efforts to obtain a comment from the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, were unsuccessful.
