The recent hike in petroleum pump prices, triggered by the ongoing upheaval in the Middle East, has begun to take a heavy toll on transportation costs and the daily operations of tricycle (Keke Napep) riders across Taraba State.

At the time of filing this report, a litre of petrol sells between N1,300 and N1,400 at filling stations across the state.

Findings by DAILY POST indicated that the sudden increase in the cost of the product is linked to the escalating tensions involving the United States of America, Israel, and Iran, which have now disrupted global oil markets.

Beyond transportation, the ripple effect of the price hike is already being felt in markets across Jalingo metropolis, where the cost of goods has started to soar.

Some tricycle operators who spoke with DAILY POST lamented that the sharp rise in fuel prices has severely affected their businesses, forcing them to increase transport fares from N200 to N300
They argued that the increase in fares has become inevitable if they are to sustain their operations amid the rising cost of fuel.

Speaking through one of its leaders, the Keke Napep Association appealed to both riders and passengers to remain calm and show understanding in the face of the current economic pressure.

In a notice issued on Tuesday and signed by Muhammad Maikudi, the association stated that petrol is currently being sold for as high as N1,400 per litre in some parts of the state.

“The increase has significantly affected transportation costs and the daily operations of our members,” Maikudi said.

The association urged passengers and riders to avoid confrontations when negotiating fares, stressing that the economic situation is affecting everyone.

“Everyone is advised to avoid fights, arguments, or conflicts when discussing transport fares with Keke riders, as this situation affects everyone,” the statement read.

According to the association, calm discussions and mutual respect remain the best way to resolve disagreements over fares during this challenging period.

It also called on members of the public to prioritise peace and cooperation in order to prevent misunderstandings that could escalate into conflicts.

Supporting the position of the association’s leadership, another tricycle operator, Emeka Uche, warned that if urgent measures are not taken to address the situation, many operators may be forced out of the business.

Meanwhile, some passengers who spoke with our reporter expressed concern that the approaching Sallah and Easter celebrations may be low key if the situation persists.

They noted that unless urgent steps are taken to stabilise fuel prices and ease the economic pressure, many residents may struggle to cope with the rising cost of transportation and goods.

Fuel price hike hits keke riders, affects transport fares in Taraba