The price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, has surged significantly across Enugu State, leaving residents grappling with higher household cooking costs.
Investigations by our correspondence reveal that gas prices fluctuate depending on the location and type of retail outlet. In Trans-Ekulu, for example, prices now range from N1,400 to N1,450 per kilogram, up from N1,100 to N1,200 in April. Smaller depots in the same area charge slightly less at N1,350 per kilogram.
Across other parts of the state capital, prices vary: Best Top Gas Depot in New Haven sells LPG at N1,400 per kilogram, while outlets in Independence Layout, Achara Layout, and Uwani charge between N1,450 and N1,500. In Nowas, gas retails at N1,500 per kilogram, with Abakpa reaching N1,550 per kilogram.
Depot officials and attendants attribute the price variability to supplier rates, transportation costs, and operational logistics. Mr. Livinus Uguru, a gas attendant, explained that prices can change daily, depending on supply conditions and delivery locations.
Consumers are adjusting to the high costs by reverting to traditional cooking methods. Mrs. Chinelo Onyema, a resident, said she uses firewood for meals like beans, okpa, and moimoi while reserving gas for rice and breakfast. She noted that her 12kg gas cylinder now costs N18,000, up from N12,500 earlier in the year.
Another resident, Mrs. Sylvia Chukwu, has abandoned gas refills in favor of a charcoal stove, which she describes as more affordable and clean, especially for a large household.
The price hike in cooking gas adds to ongoing economic pressures, forcing many households in Enugu State to reconsider their daily cooking and energy consumption habits.
