The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over the rising cost of cooking gas, describing the situation as economic cruelty that is pushing millions of Nigerians deeper into hardship.
The group expressed concern that Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, now sells for as much as N2,000 per kilogram in some parts of the country, making it increasingly difficult for many households to afford a basic necessity.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA accused authorities of failing to effectively regulate the market and protect consumers from what it described as exploitative pricing.
According to the group, the surge in cooking gas prices has gone beyond an economic challenge and is now becoming a human rights concern, as many families are being forced to choose between preparing meals and meeting other essential needs.
HURIWA warned that continued increases could worsen poverty, deepen the cost-of-living crisis, and force many Nigerians back to using firewood and charcoal, with serious health and environmental consequences.
The association also called on the Federal Government to investigate the factors driving the price hike, stabilise the market, and sanction any operators found guilty of profiteering.
It further urged regulators to introduce measures that would ease the burden on citizens already struggling with rising costs of food, transportation, electricity, and healthcare.
According to HURIWA, governments around the world intervene to prevent excessive pricing of essential goods, stressing that citizens should not be left vulnerable to unchecked economic exploitation.
The group maintained that the welfare of the people should remain a top priority, warning that prolonged inaction could trigger greater social and economic challenges across the country.
Source: Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
