By Ajifa Ainoko
Some residents of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, have appealed to the government to intervene in the recent increase in public transportation fares across the town.
In an interview with Radio Nigeria, Mr. Alemu Adudu lamented the rising cost of fuel, noting that it has significantly affected the daily lives of many Nigerians.
He explained that within the last few days, the cost of keke transportation within Lokoja has almost doubled, making it difficult for many people to go about their normal activities.
An elderly resident, Mrs. Omehi Abagana, also expressed concern over the development.
She noted that transport operators are usually quick to increase fares whenever fuel prices rise but rarely reduce them when the prices drop.
Mrs. Abagana called on relevant government regulatory bodies to monitor the activities of public transport operators and address the situation.
Meanwhile, some transport operators attributed the fare increase to the rising cost of fuel and the long queues they face at filling stations.
A keke rider, Usman Alih, and an okada rider, Alex Egbe, said the challenges in accessing fuel have forced them to adjust their fares in order to sustain their businesses.
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