The price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) in Sokoto State has seen a drastic increase, jumping to N1,350 per litre from about N1,100 in just a single day. This change occurred shortly after the breaking of the Ramadan fast, catching many residents off guard. As a result, long queues formed at filling stations as motorists hurried to purchase fuel ahead of any potential further price hikes.

This sudden increase is causing alarm amongst both residents and motorists, who are already grappling with economic hardships. Many have condemned the price hike, expressing frustration over the growing financial burden it places on them. A commercial driver, Musa Abdullahi, articulated the challenge, highlighting the difficulties transport operators face with these rising costs, suggesting that such fluctuations exacerbate their already challenging circumstances.

The context of this increase is particularly troubling for many in Nigeria, where fuel prices have previously been a contentious issue amid broader economic difficulties. With Ramadan traditionally being a time of increased spending for families and businesses, this price surge right after the fasting period raises concerns about the overall economic impact on the region, especially in terms of transportation and daily living expenses.