Residents across Ebonyi State turn to charcoal for cooking as households struggle with rising cost of LPG

Charcoal sellers in Ebonyi State are witnessing a significant increase in business as the cost of cooking gas continues to rise, pushing many residents to seek cheaper alternatives. The surge in demand has been recorded across major markets in Abakaliki and surrounding areas since early June, with many families abandoning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) due to unaffordable prices.

According to traders, the price hike for cooking gas began affecting sales at the start of the month, prompting more people to purchase charcoal for daily meal preparation. Market vendors said that while charcoal was previously patronised mostly by low-income earners, it is now being bought by civil servants and small business owners who can no longer cope with the high cost of gas refills.

The development has raised concerns among health experts and environmental advocates, who warn that increased charcoal use could worsen deforestation and air pollution in the region. However, many residents argue that the switch is necessary given current economic realities. “People just cannot afford cooking gas anymore. Some even come here daily for small portions of charcoal,” one Abakaliki market seller explained.

There has been no official response yet from Ebonyi State Government or federal authorities on efforts to address the spike in LPG prices or promote affordable clean energy options. As the situation persists, observers say more families may revert to traditional cooking methods unless urgent intervention comes from relevant agencies.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/888518-ebonyi-charcoal-dealers-record-boom-as-cooking-gas-costs-soar.html

Residents and political observers assess impact of APC administration amid ongoing infrastructure and governance challenges in South-West state

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has clocked over three years in office as the Governor of Ekiti State, prompting renewed debate on the extent of change and progress under his administration. The review of Oyebanji’s tenure comes as citizens and political stakeholders evaluate his achievements and the outstanding challenges facing the South-West state.

Since taking over as Governor, Oyebanji—who succeeded former Governor Kayode Fayemi under the All Progressives Congress (APC)—has prioritised infrastructure development, education, and public service reforms. Observers note that while some road rehabilitation projects have been flagged off in Ado-Ekiti and other parts of the state, many communities are still grappling with poor access roads and inadequate public amenities.

Ekiti residents and analysts say that expectations were high following Oyebanji’s swearing-in, especially given long-standing issues with unemployment, teacher recruitment, and basic healthcare delivery. While the administration has launched initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and youth empowerment, questions remain about their scale and effectiveness in addressing widespread poverty and rural-urban migration.

Opposition parties in Ekiti have raised concerns over what they describe as slow pace of governance reforms. Some critics argue that certain campaign promises—including improvements to water supply systems and social welfare—have yet to be fully delivered. However, government officials maintain that budget constraints and national economic challenges have affected the pace of project implementation. The Commissioner for Information has emphasised that ongoing projects will be completed before the end of Oyebanji’s tenure.

As the administration enters its fourth year, attention is shifting to how Governor Oyebanji will consolidate on current efforts ahead of future elections. Analysts suggest that tangible progress on critical sectors could influence both public perception and party fortunes in Ekiti’s next governorship election cycle.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/888513-analysis-oyebanji-over-three-years-as-ekiti-governor-what-has-changed.html

Portuguese captain unable to break deadlock as both teams share points in tightly contested group stage match

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portuguese teammates were held to a goalless draw by DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday. The highly anticipated fixture took place at a neutral venue, with both sides struggling to find the back of the net throughout the encounter.

Portugal, led by veteran forward Ronaldo, dominated possession but failed to convert several opportunities, as DR Congo’s defence remained resolute. Despite repeated attempts by the European side to break through, the Congolese goalkeeper and backline ensured that their clean sheet was preserved till the final whistle.

The result leaves both teams with one point each in Group stage standings, putting pressure on Portugal, who came into the tournament as strong favourites. For DR Congo, holding a top-ranked team like Portugal will be seen as a positive start and could boost their chances of progressing from the group.

Neither side issued official post-match statements immediately after the game. However, analysts believe Portugal will need to improve their finishing ahead of their next fixture if they are to justify pre-tournament expectations. DR Congo’s tactical discipline has drawn praise from observers who noted their effective containment of Ronaldo’s threat.

Both nations will look ahead to their upcoming group matches, with Portugal expected to make tactical adjustments while DR Congo aim to build on this solid performance. The group remains wide open following this result.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/888509-ronaldo-fires-blank-as-dr-congo-hold-portugal-in-world-cup-opener.html