The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to immediately roll out emergency measures to cushion the growing economic hardship triggered by the soaring cost of petrol, which now hovers around ₦1,400 per litre across the state.
In a press release jointly issued by it’s State Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Secretary, Research and Documentation, Etimbuk Ekpenyong on Friday and made available to the media, the group expressed deep concern over the ripple effects of fuel price surge, noting that transportation costs have risen sharply, placing what it described as an “unbearable burden” on residents, particularly low-income earners, students, and civil servants.
CHRAN acknowledged ongoing efforts by the state government under Governor Umo Eno, especially plans to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as a long-term solution to transportation challenges in the state.
CHRAN however, stressed that the severity of the current situation requires immediate intervention.
“The hardship being experienced by citizens is no longer a distant concern; it is a present and pressing crisis,” the statement said, adding that many residents now spend a significant portion of their daily income on transportation, leaving little for basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and education.
To address the crisis, the rights group urged the government to introduce transport palliatives, including targeted subsidies to ease commuting costs for residents.
It also called for urgent engagement with transport unions to negotiate and stabilize fares, warning against arbitrary increases that further worsen the plight of commuters.
While commending the proposed CNG initiative, CHRAN appealed for the fast-tracking of its implementation to ensure that its benefits reach the people without delay.
The group further advocated for the declaration of a “transportation emergency response,” emphasizing the need for swift, short-term solutions to alleviate the suffering of the populace.
“It is important to emphasize that governance is most meaningful, when it responds promptly to the needs of the people. Silence or inaction at a time like this may be interpreted as indifference,” the statement added.
CHRAN maintained that while the people of Akwa Ibom are resilient, they should not be left to bear the weight of the current economic challenges alone, urging government intervention to restore public confidence and demonstrate commitment to citizens’ welfare.
