Published: January 28, 2026
By Alphonso G. Kalama
Paynesville – Despite a steady decline in petroleum prices, transport fares across Liberia remain stubbornly high, deepening public frustration and raising questions about enforcement of government policy. In an exclusive interview with The Liberian Investigator, Prince Tambah Nyumah, President of the Liberia Petroleum Products Retailers Union Inc. (LIPPRU), called on the Government of Liberia to take drastic and uncompromising measures to ensure that recently announced transport fare reductions are fully enforced.
“If enforcement is weak, the real benefit of government policy will never reach the common people.” Prince said.
Fare Reduction Policy Yet to Impact Commuters
On October 5, 2025, the Ministry of Transport—working alongside the Ministry of Commerce and the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC)—announced a downward adjustment in transportation fares following a reduction in fuel prices. The mandate warned that drivers who failed to comply would face penalties, including fines and possible impoundment of vehicles.
Months later, daily commuters say fares remain unchanged, triggering widespread public outcry and backlash against what many describe as weak enforcement by state authorities.
Fuel Is Cheaper, But the Burden Remains
Nyumah acknowledged government efforts in stabilizing the petroleum sector, noting that fuel availability has improved and prices remain relatively affordable. However, he described the current situation as a contradiction—where government gains are neutralized by non-compliance in the transport sector.
“Fuel prices are low and stable, yet commuters are still paying huge amounts to move from one point to another.” he maintained.
According to him, unless fares are regulated and enforced in line with fuel prices, the intended economic relief for ordinary Liberians will remain out of reach.
Drivers’ Excuses and a Call for Accountability
Transport operators have blamed several factors for ignoring the fare reduction, including high spare-parts costs, poor road conditions, and so-called “police gate-drop” payments at checkpoints—claims earlier acknowledged by government officials prior to rolling out the policy.
“The argument of bad roads has already been defeated; most roads are now accessible.” the Petroleum products retailer boss added.
Nyumah insisted that while operational challenges exist, they cannot justify persistent overcharging, urging authorities to investigate and address any legitimate concerns without abandoning enforcement.
Retailers Reject Hoarding Allegations
Responding to claims by some drivers that fuel retailers are hoarding products or creating artificial scarcity to influence fares, Nyumah firmly rejected the accusation, while inviting independent investigation.
“I have not seen any of our members hoarding fuel or selling behind closed doors—if it is happening, let it be investigated and punished.” Prince urged.
He stressed that petroleum retailers are complying with government-approved pricing and selling fuel at officially declared rates.
Monitoring, Not Paper Policy
Nyumah emphasized that policy declarations alone are insufficient without sustained monitoring and investigation. He called on the Ministry of Transport, transport unions, and law-enforcement agencies to actively supervise drivers, motorcyclists, taxi operators, and truck drivers nationwide.
“This policy must not remain on paper; monitoring and investigation are the only ways the people will feel the impact.” He asserted.
He warned that failure to act could erode public confidence in government reforms, especially those tied to fuel pricing and cost-of-living relief.
Youth, Livelihoods, and the Wider Impact
The LIPPRU president also highlighted the broader economic implications, noting that thousands of young people depend on affordable transportation and fuel pricing for their livelihoods. He revealed that more than 5,000 youths are engaged in petroleum retailing in Montserrado County alone, with significant numbers in Nimba, Bong, Lofa, and Grand Gedeh counties.
“If this sector is empowered and properly regulated, it can help reduce unemployment and support families,” the LIPPRU added.
Union Leadership, Reforms, and LIPPRU’s Own Initiative
Nyumah, who assumed leadership of LIPPRU in mid-September 2025, said the union has prioritized internal reform as part of its contribution to national stability. Since taking office, LIPPRU has conducted multiple training workshops to improve safety standards, ethical sales practices, and compliance among petroleum retailers.
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