It is no news in Nigeria today that there is a great fuel scarcity Nationwide.

As fuel queues grow longer in filling stations across the country, Abuja emerges as one of the hardest-hit areas, exacerbating the already challenging commute for residents. Queues at some stations in Abuja extend onto major roads, causing traffic snarls and leaving thousands stranded at bus stops, facing exorbitant transport fares nearly double the usual rates.

The scarcity has led to disruptions in daily routines, with some motorists enduring hours-long queues and jostling at fuel stations. In certain areas of the FCT and its environs, black market fuel prices soar as high as N1,200 per litre.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a stern warning, threatening mass action if the federal government fails to address the fuel scarcity promptly. The association's Senate President, Babatunde Akinteye, highlighted the frustration and helplessness experienced by citizens, including students, amidst the crisis.

In a bid to shed light on the situation, the National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Billy Gillis-Harry, attributed the fuel scarcity to supply challenges from NNPC Limited. He emphasized the association's readiness to serve the public once petroleum products are delivered to them.

Consequently, commuters in Nasarawa state outskirts of Abuja, such as Masaka, Ado, and Mararaba, witness a surge in transportation fares, with rates now ranging from N800 to N600. Similarly, fares from Jikwoyi, Karu, and Nyanya have increased to N800 from N500 and N600, while routes like Lugbe and Airport Road now cost N500 to N600, up from N400.

Expressing their frustration, commuters like Gabriel Olotu and Agnes underscored the urgency for intervention to alleviate the burden on citizens. Olotu lamented the prolonged wait for transportation, while Agnes highlighted the strain on limited budgets due to inflated fares.

As the fuel scarcity persists, drivers like Sunday Adah criticize the government's handling of the situation, decrying the impact on their livelihoods and the public's welfare.

Amidst the challenges posed by the fuel scarcity, commuters and stakeholders alike await decisive action from authorities to mitigate the adverse effects and restore normalcy to transportation operations nationwide.