Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed concern over the escalating costs of cooking fuels, urging the government to intervene in the crisis.

In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday, residents noted that prices of alternative cooking fuels, such as firewood and charcoal, have also increased.

Mrs Hannatu Ephraim, a civil servant and Bwari resident, described the situation as ?difficult and almost impossible to improvise.?

She highlighted the rising prices of cooking gas N1,300-N1,400, firewood N200-N300 per log, and charcoal N9,500 per bag, making kerosene an unviable option.

Similarly, Mrs Angela Nkoyo, another civil servant, described the situation as ?unbearable,? with all alternatives increasing simultaneously.

She said that firewood, once affordable, now costs N300 for two small pieces, insufficient for a meal.

?It is unfortunate that Nigerians struggle to provide daily food for their families and still struggle to find cheaper alternative to cook, having dumping their usual means of cooking.

?The means of survival is gradually becoming more difficult for many families.

?I am appealing for government?s intervention in relevant sectors, to ease the burden with immediate effect,?? she said.

Mrs Hauwa Bello, a kerosene retailer, reported low patronage due to the product?s incessant price hikes N1,847 up from N1,450 in May. Customers now opted for gas and charcoal.

Mr John Umeh, a welder, expressed frustration over kerosene?s unaffordability, affecting his business.

He called for government intervention to ease the fuel situation.

However, Mrs Adah James, a charcoal seller, argued that charcoal remained the cheapest option, in spite of price increases N8,500 per bag, up from N5,000.

She urged the Federal Government to stabilise costs and increase fuel availability.

?Previously, we purchased a bag for N4,000 to N5,000, but now I buy it for N7,500 and sometimes N8,000.

?Most people can no longer afford a full bag, but they can still purchase smaller quantities.

?This is because many still prefer charcoal over gas and kerosene, in spite of its increased cost.

?At least, you can get N200 to N500 worth of charcoal, which can cook a substantial meal and still leave enough for another,?? she said.

James emphasised that the Federal Government should implement measures to stabilise prices and increase fuel availability nationwide to alleviate hardship, particularly before the holiday season. (NAN)

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