Christmas Travel Woes: Commuters In Imo and Abia Decry Fare Hikes, Checkpoint Delays

As the Christmas season approaches, commuters in Imo and Abia States have voiced their frustration over rising transport fares and prolonged travel times caused by numerous military and police checkpoints. For many, the joy of traveling home for the holidays is overshadowed by the financial strain and stress associated with road travel in the South-East region.

Fare Hikes and Financial Strain

Commuters have reported steep increases in transport costs, with fares on key routes like Owerri to Lagos rising to between N23,000 and N25,000, while trips to Abuja now cost between N35,000 and N38,000. Even shorter journeys, such as from Owerri to Aba, have seen price hikes from N2,500 to N3,000. The situation is similar in Abia, where fares from Umuahia to Arochukwu have jumped from N4,000–N5,000 to N7,000, leaving many unable to afford travel.

The price surge, attributed to the removal of fuel subsidies and checkpoint extortions, has left holidaymakers stranded, with some lamenting the inability to travel with their families. “Fares are unreasonably high,” said Mr. Greg Orji, an Enugu-bound passenger, “and this will prevent many families from traveling together for Christmas.”

Delays at Checkpoints and Road Conditions

Adding to the frustration are delays caused by multiple security checkpoints. On routes like Owerri-Aba, what should be a 40-minute trip now takes over two hours. Drivers, like Mr. Charles Agwulonu, accuse operatives of extortion, alleging that bribes paid at checkpoints are factored into the rising fares.

Poor road conditions exacerbate these delays. Ongoing road reconstruction projects, such as those on the Owerri-Umuahia and Umuahia-Ohafia routes, force drivers to take longer detours. The resultant traffic congestion, coupled with checkpoints, stretches travel times significantly.

Calls for Government Intervention

Commuters and drivers alike are appealing to the government for solutions. Some have suggested subsidized transport services during the festive period to ease the financial burden. Others, like Mrs. Chinwendu Uju, called for a review of checkpoint practices, describing the delays and forced disembarkation as “inhumane.”

Civil servant Mr. Promise Kanu highlighted the broader economic implications, noting that increased fares also drive up the cost of goods and services, particularly in markets like Aba.

Looking Ahead

While transport operators argue that high fuel prices and checkpoint bribes justify fare hikes, passengers contend that the current situation is unsustainable. With many stranded at parks and struggling to meet the demands of the season, the joy of Christmas is overshadowed by economic hardship and travel-related stress.

Without immediate intervention, the challenges faced by commuters in Imo and Abia may continue to dampen the festive spirit, leaving many unable to celebrate with their loved ones.