By Dauda Mohammed
In the months leading up to Nigeria’s elections, citizens have witnessed a sudden reduction in the prices of essential goods such as petrol and food items. Many Nigerians, already struggling with the high cost of living, have welcomed this temporary relief. However, there is growing concern that these reductions are only a strategic move by politicians to gain public favor before re-election one that will quickly reverse once they secure another term in office.
For months, Nigerians have battled skyrocketing prices of fuel, rice, beans, and other essential commodities. The high cost of petrol, in particular, has affected transportation and food prices, making daily survival a struggle for many families. However, in the weeks leading up to the elections, prices of petrol have mysteriously become more stable, and some food items have also seen slight reductions.
“I used to buy a bag of rice for ₦60,000, but now it’s around ₦50,000. Even petrol that was above ₦700 per liter has dropped in some places,” said a Lagos trader, “But we all know this is temporary. Immediately after elections, everything will go back to normal or even worse.”
This cycle is not new to Nigerians. Every election season, citizens observe a sudden effort by the government to ease economic hardship, only to experience a sharp rise in prices once the elections are over. Some political analysts believe this is a tactic to influence voters.
“Politicians understand the power of economic relief in winning elections,” explained by a political analyst. “They use it to make citizens feel hopeful. But history has shown us that these reductions are short-lived. Once elections are over, fuel subsidies are removed, taxes increase, and prices skyrocket again.”
Many Nigerians fear that after the elections, the government will reverse any temporary relief measures. Fuel prices may increase, leading to higher transportation costs, which will in turn affect food and commodity prices. The struggling economy, coupled with inflation, may push the cost of living even higher than before.
As the country awaits the election results, citizens are hopeful but cautious. Will the government make long-term efforts to stabilize the economy, or is this just another political strategy? Only time will tell.
For now, Nigerians are making the most of the temporary ease, knowing that tough times may return soon.
Dauda Mohammed is a writer based in Kano
