By Vincent Ujumadu

Awka- Most filling stations in Anambra State closed shop as soon as information filtered in that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited had issued a circular directing its filling stations to increase pump price from N617 to N897 per litre.

In the state capital, Awka, only the Rainoil located along the Enugu- Onitsha road was selling fuel as at 5 pm on Tuesday.

Following the development, commercial vehicle operators have increased their fares, forcing many commuters to embark on their journeys on foot.

Some however cut the distance and did part by trekking and completing by transportation so as to cut cost.

It was discovered that places that used to cost N200 by public transport were increased to N350. Also, transport fare from Awka to Onitsha was increased from N1000 to N1300, same as from Awka to Nnewi.

Some filling stations that sold fuel up to the end of business on Monday said their product had been exhausted as they stayed idle beside their pumps.

Many commercial vehicle operators who could not find fuel have either parked them  in their houses, or left them on the queues at the stations.