Fuel prices in Nigeria continue to soar, reaching unprecedented highs of ₦855 to ₦918 per litre.
Now it will hit ₦950 and could get to over ₦1,200 in most states of the nation.
As a result, many have speculated that the nation is on the verge of another wave of mass protests.
The fuel price increase has led to inflation, skyrocketing transportation costs, and widespread hardship.
However, despite the growing frustrations, it is unlikely that large-scale protests will occur.
Several factors, ranging from government crackdowns on dissent to economic struggles, have created significant barriers to organised protests.
Government Crackdown On Protesters
Before the most recent fuel price hike, several #EndBadGovernance protesters were arrested. As a result, nothing much came from it.
This signals the government’s firm stance against any form of civil unrest.
Indeed, this preemptive action sent a strong message that any attempt to organise protests could be met with force.
Given the memory of the 2020 #EndSARS protests, during which demonstrators were also arrested and some subjected to violence.
Many Nigerians may be hesitant to risk their safety by participating in large-scale demonstrations.
The arrest of protesters before the fuel price increment has created a chilling effect on those who would otherwise be willing to protest.
Economic Hardship
Millions of Nigerians are suffering from severe hunger and economic exhaustion, which is one of the most important reasons protests might not take place.
Many households are now living in deeper poverty, as a result of the increase in fuel prices, which has also increased the cost of necessities.
Also, increasing expenses on food items and transportation are making it difficult for people to meet their basic daily needs.
For a large number of Nigerians, survival has taken precedence.
There is little desire or energy left over from the daily struggle to pay for fuel, food, and other needs to take part in protests.
People are just not strong enough to live on the streets, mentally or physically.
Fuel Queues
The fuel scarcity and long petrol queues that have resulted from the price hikes have made it difficult for Nigerians to move around.
Also, it is further diminishing the likelihood of protests.
Many people are spending hours, if not days, waiting in line just to buy fuel.
The time and effort required to obtain fuel leave little room for organising or attending protests.
People Also Read: Dangote Petrol: 4 Positive Effects Of New Fuel Price
In the last protest, many protesters were confined to a particular location, making it hard for many people to come.
Now, the rising cost of transportation makes it financially impossible for many Nigerians to travel to protest locations.
