Residents of Kwara State are expressing frustration over the soaring cost of cooking gas, as the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has climbed to as much as N2,200 per kilogram in some communities, further stretching already struggling household budgets.
The sharp increase has left many families and small business owners scrambling for alternatives, with some considering a return to charcoal and firewood despite the health and environmental risks associated with traditional cooking methods.
Several residents told Arewa PUNCH that the latest hike came without warning and has made everyday living even more difficult.
A resident of Ilorin, Abdulganiyu Obanguru, said he was shocked when he arrived at a gas station expecting to buy LPG at its previous rate.
“The last time I bought gas, it was around N1,150 per kilogram. When I got to the station, I was told it had increased to N1,750. I wanted to buy 8kg but could only afford 6kg,” he said.
He lamented that rising prices have made it almost impossible for families to plan their finances.
“Nigeria is becoming a place where survival comes before living. You make a budget today and it becomes useless tomorrow,” he added.
Another resident, Aishat, described the situation as unbearable, noting that cooking gas sold for about N1,300 per kilogram before the Eid-el-Kabir celebration but jumped to nearly N2,000 per kilogram shortly afterwards.
“Most people struggled when it was cheaper. Now it’s even worse. How are families expected to cope?” she asked.
In Offa Local Government Area, some outlets were reportedly selling LPG for as much as N2,300 per kilogram, placing additional pressure on households and small businesses.
A food vendor, Kafilat Ibrahim, said the increase has significantly reduced her profit margin.
“I spend much more on gas now, but I cannot increase food prices because customers are already complaining. Some food sellers have gone back to using firewood,” she explained.
Residents across the state say stagnant incomes and rising living costs are forcing many people to make difficult choices between essential needs.
A civil servant, Bose Adeyemi, said families are being squeezed from all directions.
“My salary has remained the same, but transportation, food and now cooking gas keep getting more expensive. Many people are simply managing,” she said.
Industry stakeholders attributed the latest increase to rising foreign exchange rates, higher importation costs and transportation expenses.
According to marketers, the cost of supplying LPG has increased significantly, pushing retail prices higher across the country.
Experts have also warned that continued increases in cooking gas prices could reverse progress made in promoting cleaner energy, as more households may abandon LPG and return to firewood and charcoal.
Despite Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves, many consumers say access to affordable cooking gas remains a growing challenge.
