Abraka Metro
Fuel Hikes: Why Nigerians Continue To Question Price Burden
By Unutame Francisca Oghenro
Fuel is any substance that is burned to produce energy. Examples include petrol, diesel, kerosene, gas, and coal. Fuel is very important in our daily lives because it helps people carry out many activities such as transportation, cooking, electricity generation, and industrial production. Without fuel, many activities in society would become difficult.
The issue of fuel price increase in Nigeria has become a major concern to citizens. Nigeria is known as one of the oil-producing countries in the world, especially with large deposits of crude oil in the Niger Delta region. Oil was first discovered in Oloibiri in 1956, and since then, petroleum has become one of the country’s major sources of revenue. Oil is often called “black gold” because of its great financial value and importance to the economy.
Many Nigerians including myself believe that fuel should not be too expensive in a country blessed with abundant crude oil resources. Instead of citizens enjoying affordable petroleum products, the price of petrol keeps increasing. This situation has raised questions among citizens about why an oil-producing country should still experience high fuel costs. The increase in fuel price has affected the economy and the daily lives of people. Transportation fares have increased because drivers now spend more money on petrol. Workers, students, and traders who travel from one place to another now face difficulties due to the high cost of transportation. In addition, the prices of food items and other goods have also increased because traders spend more money transporting their goods. Businesses that rely on fuel-powered generators now spend more money to operate. Small business owners face losses, while some companies reduce their workforce due to high operating costs. This has increased hardship and poverty among citizens.
Furthermore, many businesses that depend on fuel for generators and machines now spend more on operation. This affects small business owners and can lead to unemployment and hardship. i believe that the government should focus on improving the living conditions of the people instead of allowing fuel prices to continue rising.
The price of fuel continues to rise in Nigeria, despite the numerous dangers and challenges associated with its production, transportation, and usage. From devastating tanker explosions and toxic pollution to widespread economic hardship, the fuel crisis has had serious consequences for public health, safety, and the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians. Yet, fuel prices keep increasing. Fuel tanker trucks frequently cause fatal road accidents and explosions, resulting in the loss of lives and valuable property. These tragic incidents have become a recurring problem across the country. Despite these dangers, the cost of fuel continues to soar, placing an even greater burden on citizens who already struggle with the high cost of living.
Beyond the economic challenges, fuel related activities have also contributed significantly to environmental degradation. Oil refining operations and pipeline vandalism continue to pollute waterways and destroy agricultural lands, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Heavy hydrocarbon contamination has damaged the environment, leaving communities without clean water and fertile farmland. Many residents have lost their primary sources of income and continue to suffer the consequences of environmental pollution while also struggling with the rising cost of fuel.
Increasing the price of fuel help save budgetary funds, reduce national debt, prevent economic bankruptcy, minimize government borrowing, and balance the national budget. While these arguments may appear convincing, they raise important concerns. Despite repeated increases in fuel prices, Nigeria continues to borrow from foreign countries, including China. The country has historically borrowed billions of dollars and still maintains significant outstanding bilateral debts. If fuel price increases are intended to strengthen the economy and reduce dependence on borrowing, “why does Nigeria continue to seek loans from other nations?” This situation presents a troubling contradiction. Nigeria is richly blessed with vast oil resources and national wealth, yet many of its citizens continue to experience severe economic hardship. How can a nation endowed with such abundant natural resources still struggle to provide a decent standard of living for its people? How can fuel prices continue to rise while poverty and suffering persist?
In my perspective, the continuous increase in fuel prices has imposed more hardship than relief on the average Nigerian. Rather than focusing solely on raising fuel prices, the government should prioritize effective management of oil resources, address environmental degradation in oil-producing communities, reduce corruption, and ensure that the nation’s wealth translates into tangible benefits for its citizens. Until these issues are addressed, many Nigerians will continue to question the justification for the persistent increase in fuel prices. On the other hand, some people argue that increasing fuel prices can help the government generate more revenue and reduce fuel smuggling. But I tongly believe that the money realized can be used for national development such as building roads, schools, hospitals, and improving electricity supply. However, the negative effects of fuel price increases are greater than the benefits because the common citizens suffer the most.
In conclusion, the increase in fuel price has become a serious problem affecting many Nigerians. Since fuel plays an important role in everyday life, any increase in its price affects transportation, food, businesses, and the general standard of living. Therefore, the government should carefully consider the welfare of citizens and work towards making fuel affordable while also improving the nation’s economy. “Fuel should not be this expensive in an oil-producing country. The government should ensure that citizens benefit from this national wealth. The government should prioritize the welfare of its people by ensuring affordable fuel and a better standard of living for the citizens.”
Author’s Bio
Francisca Unutame is an undergraduate student of Journalism and Media Studies with a passion for writing, research, and effective communication. She has a growing interest in media ethics, public relations, and digital storytelling, and is committed to using journalism to inform, educate, and inspire.
Email: ufrancisca2005@gmail.com
A former Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Victor Peretomode, has proposed a tripartite governance model to sustain excellence in the institution.
Peretomode proposed the model at DELSU’s 12th valedictory lecture held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the university’s 750 Lecture Theatre, Site III.
The lecture was titled, “DELSU and the Burden of Expectation: The Challenges of Being Delta State’s Premier University and Rethinking Governance for Sustainable Excellence.”
He said as the state’s premier university, DELSU carries triple burdens — aspirational, political and operational — which translate into expectations such as expanding access to university education for Deltans, accommodating qualified indigenes, advancing state-specific development priorities and producing morally sound and employable graduates.
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Peretomode, a Professor of Educational Administration and Higher Education, said the challenges could be addressed through his proposed “Peretomode Tripartite Model of Governance for Sustainable Excellence,” anchored on three pillars: Leadership Integrity, Funding Predictability and Quality Assurance.
He observed that DELSU has come far, but its journey is far from complete, adding that the burden of expectation it carries is not a weight to be feared, but a responsibility to be fulfilled.
In his remarks, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Visitor to the university, described Peretomode as an academic who contributed immensely to the development of university education in the state.
Oborevwori, who was represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, said the state would still need Peretomode’s wealth of experience as he bows out of service and assured of continued support for DELSU.
On his part, the Vice-Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Samuel Asagba, lauded Peretomode’s achievements as former VC, noting that his policies, though considered harsh at the time, have placed the university in its present enviable state.
Asagba wished the valedictory lecturer the best in his future endeavours.
Highlights of the event included the launch of two books authored by the valedictory lecturer and a musical rendition by the Department of Music.
Peretomode joined DELSU in 1992 as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Management and Foundations, became a Professor in 1996 and served as its 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor from 2014 to 2019.
The lecture was attended by the Vice-Chancellor of University of Delta, Agbor, Prof. Eric Eboh, Vice-Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, DELSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, DELSU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Hilary Owamah, DELSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Douglasson Omotor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Delta, Agbor, Prof. Patrick Ijeh, Provost of Oleh Campus, Prof. Augustine Atonuje, DELSU Registrar, Mrs Rufina Ufiofio, DELSU Bursar, Mrs Otimeyin Ekakitie-Omajuwa, DELSU Librarian, Dr Josephine Onohwakpor, Provosts, Deans, Directors, staff and students of the university.
Also in attendance were the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector, Delta State Marine Polytechnic, Burutu, Prof. Emmanuel Okoro, Delta business tycoon, Chief Tunde Smooth, Executive Director of Project, DESOPADEC, Chief (Dr) Ebenezer Okorodudu, former DELSU Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, former Dennis Osadebey University Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Robert Ikomi, members of DELSU College of Chaplains, friends and family members of the valedictory lecturer, including his wife, Dr (Mrs) Otaroghene Peretomode.
The release comes barely 24 hours after the state-owned institution released its first batch of admission for the incoming session.
By Ese Umukoro
The serene community of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka was thrown into mourning on Friday, 28th August, 2026, as the remains of Late Prof. Emmanuel Oghenebrorien Akarah, popularly known as, Don Spino, was committed to mother earth.
Speaking during the commendation service at Atscan Hall, Site II of the University, the Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Samuel Asagba, lamented that he received the sad news of the demise of the deceased on 8th of May, 2026 as a rude shock.
Asagba recalled the personal memories he shared with Akarah as a friend, eulogising his forthrightness, outspokenness and doggedness.
He stated that Don Spino contributed his quota to the growth of the University in different capacities since he was employed into the services of DELSU, adding that his legacy would not be forgotten in the history of DELSU because of his impact on both staff and students.
The Vice Chancellor thereafter led the University community to observe a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased.
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In his commendation earlier, the Head of Department of Human Kinetics, Recreation and Sports Science, Prof. Ochuko Nabofa, eulogised Don Spino, calling him a colleague, a friend, a scholarly collaborator and ultimately an in-law.
Nabofa recollected how himself and the late Don Spino shared ideas, challenged each other intellectually and worked together in the pursuit of knowledge.
Nabofa concluded that Don Spino’s death has left a void in the Department of Human Kinetics, Recreation and Sports Science, in DELSU and in the lives of those who knew him.
He said the bond was further strengthened when in February this year, Don Spino’s cousin, Hon. (Double Chief) Godday Ewenuvie, got married to his younger sister whom he raised as a daughter, thus making them in-laws.
In her oration, the Dean of Faculty of Education, Prof. Florence Ugorji, said Don Spino was a man of the people whose life impacted positively on all who came across him.
Represented by Prof. Canice Ikeorji, the Dean further lamented that the deceased was an asset to the faculty and prayed for the repose of his soul.
Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU-DELSU), Comrade Paul Opone, bemoaned the loss of Don Spino.
In his tributes, Opone recalled the contributions of Don Spino during congresses and how he fought for the Union during its period of crisis.
The union Chairman stated that the passing of Don Spino was a challenge to him and the Union as it would be difficult to get his replacement.
Opone thereafter led members of the Union in singing the solidarity song for a fallen comrade.
The commendation service also witnessed the filing past the casket of Don Spino led by the Vice Chancellor before the remains of Don Spino were taken to Uruekpo Quarters in Evwreni kingdom for interment.
Late Professor Emmanuel Oghenebrorien Akarah joined the services of DELSU in 1995 as Graduate Assistant and rose to the rank of Professor in 2021.
Earlier, a Service of Songs in his honour was held at the DELSU’s Sports Complex on Wednesday, 26th August, 2026.
Dignitaries present at the commendation service included the Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Professor Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, the University Registrar, Mrs Rufina Ufiofio, represented by Mr Emmanuel Okoro, the University Librarian, Dr (Mrs) Josephine Onohwakpor, Director of Ceremonials, Information and Public Relations, Prof. Enajite Ojaruega, Chairman of ASUU-DELSU, Comrade Paul Opone, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, the University Public Relations Officer, Mr Henry Eseka, family members of the deceased, Professors, staff, students, and others from within and outside the university community.
Those present during the funeral at Evwreni kingdom included the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, immediate past Provost of Oleh campus, Prof. Elo Ibagere, Directors including the Director of Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES), Prof. Onoriode Emoyan, Deans of Faculties including the Dean of Arts Faculty, Prof. Nelson Edewor, Heads of Departments, politicians, business moguls, friends, family members of Don Spino and other mourners.
By God’stime Oyeh
An accident involving a GLK 350 and a commercial motorcyclist happened around 11:30 a.m., reportedly after a case of wrong-lane driving.
According to eyewitnesses, the motorcyclist, popularly known as an “Aboki” bikeman, was coming from the Campus 2 area when he was allegedly hit by the GLK 350 car.
The little damage to the car caused some tension at the scene as both parties tried to explain what happened.
Eyewitnesses said the motorcyclist seemed to be at a disadvantage during the confrontation with the car driver- who was clearly trying to oppress the motorcyclist which led vigilantes and other bystanders to step in and calm things down before it got out of hand.
Things reportedly got more heated when some area boys arrived and tried to help settle the issue. The GLK 350 driver defended himself and shared his version of events, but some witnesses felt his explanation didn’t quite match what they saw happen.
As arguments continued and tempers rose,and with the car driver still wanting to oppress the motorcyclist, the Vigilantes took it upon themselves to caution him since he wasn’t trying to make peace…the matter was eventually taken to the police station for proper investigation and resolution.
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