RismadarVoice Reporters
September 25, 2026
A sharp rise in petrol prices has forced some motorists in Maiduguri, Borno State, to park their vehicles, with residents reporting reduced movement across the state capital.
Petrol prices in the metropolis recently climbed from about ₦1,430 to more than ₦1,500 per litre, adding to transportation and living costs for residents.
A check across parts of Maiduguri showed noticeably fewer private vehicles on some roads compared with usual weekday traffic.
“A lot of people have parked their cars because of the increase in fuel prices. It has also reduced the movement of people,” a resident said.
Another resident, Musa Iliya, said the increase had compounded existing economic pressures on households.
Modu Ali said some of his friends and colleagues had also stopped using their vehicles because they could no longer comfortably afford petrol.
“Some of my friends and colleagues are distressed by the increase in fuel prices to ₦1,500 per litre, because earning money has become difficult,” Ali said. “So, they have no choice but to park their cars.”
Residents also expressed concern that sustained increases in petrol prices could push up transportation fares and food prices.
Ali appealed for government intervention, saying, “It would be good if the government reduced the price so that life can become easier for us because things are hard right now.”
Another resident, Gambo Mohammed, called for the restoration of fuel subsidies as a means of reducing pressure on households.
Despite the increase in petrol prices, commercial transport fares within Maiduguri have largely remained unchanged.
The state-backed Borno Express metro buses introduced by Governor Babagana Zulum continue to charge about ₦50, while commercial tricycle operators charge around ₦300 per trip.
