Commercial transport operators in Calabar, Cross River State, have resisted increasing transport fares despite the recent rise in petrol prices.
Checks across parts of the city showed that commuters were still paying the usual fares, even as petrol prices reportedly ranged between ₦1,410 and ₦1,500 per litre at some filling stations.
Passengers said the unchanged fares had provided some relief amid the rising cost of living. One commuter reported paying ₦500 from Ikot Ansa to Eta-Agbor Roundabout, while another said the fare from Ikot Ishie to Marian Market remained ₦250.
A student travelling from Calabar to Awi in Akamkpa also said she paid the same ₦2,000 fare she had previously been charged.
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However, transport operators said the situation was putting pressure on their earnings, citing increased fuel, vehicle maintenance and other operating costs.
One driver explained that raising fares could further burden passengers who are already struggling with economic challenges, prompting operators to maintain existing prices for now.
Transporters, however, warned that continuing to absorb the higher operating costs could become increasingly difficult if petrol prices continue to rise.
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