Some workers in Lagos have decried the rising price of fuel, saying the increases have worsened economic hardship and sharply raised the cost of living.
The workers spoke with reporters on Friday during the celebration of the United Nations International Workers’ Day.
This year’s Workers’ Day theme is “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work.”
In separate interviews, the respondents urged the Federal and Lagos State governments to urgently address the worsening economic situation before the 2027 elections.
They noted that rising petrol prices have driven up transport fares, food prices, housing costs, and other basic expenses.
A businesswoman in Ikeja, Mrs Rose Adams, said many businesses were struggling under severe pressure from rising operating costs.
“Many entrepreneurs are finding it difficult to stay afloat because of the current economic situation,” she said.
She urged the government to communicate policies clearly and implement measures that bring relief to citizens.
Mr Jide Bane, a salesman in Ajah, described the economic situation as deeply troubling.
“It is painful that a resource-rich country is still battling high energy costs and poor living conditions,” he said.
Mrs Grace Ngbekem said fuel price hikes have affected every sector of the economy.
“Once fuel prices rise, everything else rises — transport, food, and even house rent,” she said.
Mrs Nkechi Nwosu, a federal civil servant, lamented that the current minimum wage no longer reflects economic realities.
“School fees, food, and rent have all increased. The minimum wage is no longer enough,” she said.
A lawyer, Mr Johnson Raphael, said rising petrol prices had triggered increases in the cost of goods and essential services.
“Life is becoming increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian worker,” he said.
He urged the government to consider rent controls, reduce the cost of building materials, and improve security nationwide.
Raphael warned that unresolved economic challenges could lead to low voter participation in the 2027 general elections
