Cooking gas sellers in Enugu have raised concerns over declining patronage as rising LPG prices push many households to adopt charcoal as a cheaper alternative for cooking.
Cooking gas sellers in Enugu State have reported a sharp decline in patronage as rising prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) force many households to switch to charcoal as a more affordable cooking alternative.
The development, observed across several parts of the state, has been linked to increasing fuel and energy costs affecting household purchasing power nationwide.
Retailers who spoke with journalists on Wednesday said the situation has significantly reduced their daily sales and affected their income.
A gas retailer, Mr. Emmanuel Okam, said his business had witnessed a steep drop in customer demand as many households now purchase smaller quantities due to affordability challenges.
According to him, customers who previously refilled larger cylinders now buy minimal quantities because of rising prices.
He explained that he currently buys LPG at about ₦1,600 per kilogram from suppliers and sells to consumers at about ₦1,850 per kilogram, leaving him with limited profit margins.
Okam noted that despite reducing prices where possible, sales volumes had continued to fall, making it difficult to sustain his business operations.
He added that his weekly sales had dropped significantly compared to previous months, affecting his ability to meet financial obligations.
Another retailer, Mr. Ifeanyi Maduka, attributed the decline in patronage to the broader economic situation and instability in fuel pricing.
He explained that cooking gas, which previously sold at significantly lower rates, has now become unaffordable for many households.
Maduka noted that price fluctuations across suppliers have further worsened the situation for both retailers and consumers.
He said while some outlets now sell LPG for as high as ₦2,000 per kilogram, others operate between ₦1,750 and ₦1,900 depending on location and supply costs.
A secondary school teacher, Mrs. Ukamaka Okoro, said the rising cost of cooking gas has forced her to reduce the quantity she purchases for household use.
She explained that the price increase has placed additional financial pressure on low-income earners struggling with the rising cost of living.
Okoro called on the government to urgently address the situation to ease the burden on households affected by inflation and energy price hikes.
Meanwhile, charcoal sellers in Enugu have reported increased patronage as more residents shift away from cooking gas due to affordability challenges.
A charcoal dealer, who requested anonymity, said demand for charcoal has risen significantly in recent months.
He explained that a bag of charcoal currently sells between ₦8,000 and ₦8,500, depending on size and transport costs from supplying areas.
According to him, the rising cost of cooking gas has made charcoal a preferred alternative for many households seeking cheaper cooking options.
The trend highlights growing concerns over energy affordability and its impact on household consumption patterns in Enugu State and other parts of the country.
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