News
Rising Fuel Prices and Commuter Struggles in Owerri as fuel price soars to N1000 per litre
Yesterday morning, the metropolis of Owerri witnessed an unprecedented scene during rush hour as large numbers of residents opted to trek to work. This unusual sight was prompted by a significant reduction in the availability of commercial buses, which was largely attributed to escalating fuel prices.
The busy Owerri-Okigwe Road and Wetheral Road, known for their heavy traffic, were notably less congested with public transit options. Reports reveal that commercial bus drivers have raised fares substantially—some destinations are now charging double the previous rates—making transportation increasingly unaffordable for many residents.
Chinedu Ofoha, a local bus driver, expressed the dilemma faced by drivers, stating, “We don’t feel happy increasing the price of transportation, but it has become inevitable due to the increase in the price of petroleum products.” The hardships brought about by rising fuel costs have taken a toll across various sectors within the state.
A concerning escalation was noted this week, with fuel prices surging from N850 to between N900 and N1000 per litre. Many residents voiced their frustrations over this continuous increase, leading to the temporary halt of Keke bus services in protest. Rosemary Emenike, a fruit seller at the World Bank Market, shared her plight: “When we go to the rural markets to purchase the fruits, conveying them to town becomes a problem as drivers charge us beyond what we can afford.”
The removal of fuel subsidies on May 29, 2023, by President Bola Tinubu, has been largely blamed for the ongoing crisis. Consequentially, residents are now grappling with the compounded effects of transport fare hikes, reduced purchasing power, and rising costs of essential goods.
In summary, the increase in fuel prices continues to cast a shadow over the lives of Owerri residents, prompting a re-evaluation of daily routines and financial priorities. As the city comes to terms with these economic challenges, the resilience of its citizens remains a beacon of hope amidst adversity.
The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the declaration on Saturday following an inspection of the road. He stated that the project, initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, had been poorly executed or abandoned.
Umahi explained that despite repeated attempts to have Salini repair the road over the past year and a half, progress had been unsatisfactory. Niger Governor Mohammed Bago raised concerns with President Bola Tinubu, prompting the Ministry of Works to intervene. The road, described as being “in a very terrible situation delaying travel time by seven hours instead of an hour and half hours and vehicles are falling and killing people,” has been designated an emergency project.
The contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to substandard work. Umahi has directed his ministry to recover funds owed by Salini, potentially involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Two contractors are now engaged in the project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd. has been contracted to handle part of the road, with 60km already completed under the Governor’s urban renewal agenda. CCCC has been given 10 days to mobilize and commence work on a critical 7km stretch. Umahi emphasized that work will begin immediately under emergency procurement guidelines, with pricing to be verified subsequently.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of Kayode Peters, a renowned filmmaker and producer. The news was announced by his family on his official Instagram page, stating that he passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness.
Peters, fondly known as KP, was celebrated for his contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and producer. He was known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcoms “Twilight Zone” and “Flatmates” in the early 2000s. His work also extended to stage plays and sitcoms like “Extended Family” and “Being Farouk,” significantly impacting Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television landscape.
He is survived by his wife, Alexander, and their children. Funeral arrangements are underway, and further details will be shared by the family in due course. The industry and fans alike will deeply miss his warmth, generosity, and contributions to Nollywood.
President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-nation tour encompassing the Caribbean and South America. Upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, he was received with full military honors by Governor-General Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre.
The President’s itinerary includes courtesy visits to the Governor-General and Prime Minister, followed by an address to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with emphasis on economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. A visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is also planned to strengthen educational ties.
Following his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, attending at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Nigeria’s participation as a ‘partner country’ underscores its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations on a global scale.
A Special Birthday Tribute to Mrs. Linda Aronu C.
A Special Birthday Message to Dike Christopher Nnamdi.
