Since I grew up to the reality of being a Nigerian living in Nigeria, I’ve observed some fine distinctions that repeat themselves during fuel scarcity or price hikes. 

It’s hard to not catch a Nigerian or two doing these things when either happens. 

Spike in fuel gauge anxiety

I’m talking about the people constantly checking their fuel gauge as if they can command it to read “full” just a bit longer.

Limited movement

Don’t let people “burn” fuel for an unnecessary rendezvous, I doubt their heart will say a prayer for you.

Fuel queue shuffle

The stressful attempt of finding a filling station with the shortest queue. But you end up at a spot where breakfast and dinner time pass before it reaches your turn to buy fuel.

“I heard it was cheap yesterday”

Nigerians arguing about fuel cost and the ever-changing prices like they’re at a stock exchange.

Petrol station pit stop 

People’s side assignment when they’re outside is to stop at a filling station to top up their tanks or fill one or two kegs and load them in the boot.

The facepalm moments

The moment you fill your car tank at a higher rate only for you hear that a filling station at the next junction is selling for cheap.

Government shenanigans

Fuel price hike is the government’s way of testing our patience. They use this to experiment the number of walls we can break as they they push us into more hardship.

The only worthy cause to get your ride or lovely self on the road this period should be Burning Ram. How do you explain that you heard about the biggest meat and grill festival in Lagos and unlooked? Get your ticket here now. November 11th is date. See you.

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