As Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence anniversary today, some residents of Cross River State have lamented the rising cost of living, saying the economic hardship has made it difficult for ordinary Nigerians to find joy in the celebration.

The residents, who spoke on the state of the country, complained about the rising prices of petrol, transportation, food, cooking gas and education, among other basic necessities.

A transporter, David Ekpenyong, recalled when petrol sold for between N120 and N140 per litre, saying the situation had changed drastically, with Nigerians now buying the commodity for about N1,500 per litre.

According to him, the high cost of fuel has affected transportation, making life difficult for both transport operators and passengers as the increased cost of running vehicles translates to higher fares.

A resident, Uwem Essien, said the hardship had become so severe that some of his friends who own cars had parked their vehicles and resorted to public transportation because they could no longer cope with the cost of fuelling and maintaining their cars.

Essien said the situation was an indication of the level of economic pressure on Nigerians, as even car owners were now finding it difficult to use their vehicles regularly.

For businessman, Mr Peter Okon, there was “no joy” in celebrating Nigeria at 66 amid the economic difficulties facing citizens and businesses.

Okon particularly lamented the burden of taxation, saying multiple taxes and other financial obligations were making it increasingly difficult for businesses to survive.

He said businesses were struggling at a time when customers were also finding it difficult to afford goods and services, thereby affecting sales and income.

A resident who is into petty business, Mrs Merab Ojong expressed concern over the rising cost of living, saying families were struggling to provide basic necessities.

She said the price of cooking gas had risen to between N1,200 and N1,500, while the cost of food had made it difficult for her to prepare a pot of soup with N10,000.

She also lamented the rising cost of education, noting that her husband has not been able to pay the children school fees since resumption.

“It is that bad, we can hardly afford three square meals a day , since school resumed my children have not been to school because we have not paid their fees and you are asking me to celebrate Nigeria at 66? What is there to celebrate? The government is making life a living hell for us. I can’t even cook a pot of soup with N10,000.” Ojong lamented.

While acknowledging the importance of Independence Day, the residents said the anniversary should also be a time for leaders to reflect on the hardship facing ordinary Nigerians and take steps to make life more affordable.

They called for measures to reduce the pressure on families and businesses, saying after 66 years of independence, Nigerians deserve better living conditions.