Auto mechanics in Umuahia, Abia State, have raised concerns about a decline in patronage since the removal of fuel subsidy. They have observed that some customers are refusing to collect their vehicles from workshops, even after the completion of repairs.
Mechanics Cletus Iwundu and Kelechi Nonso expressed their frustration over the sharp decrease in earnings since June, following the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidy. They explained that many car owners have left their vehicles at the workshops despite the mechanics finishing the necessary work. This has resulted in a congestion of uncollected cars in their workshops.
The mechanics pointed out that their customers are facing economic hardships, which have affected their ability to maintain their vehicles. In addition, some car owners have instructed the mechanics to find buyers for their cars as the high cost of petrol, priced at N530 per litre, has made it difficult for them to continue operating their vehicles.
Nonso mentioned that some customers have informed him that they will collect their cars once they receive their salaries. A visit by a correspondent to the Ohiya auto mechanic, the largest auto market in Umuahia, and other mechanic workshops in the area confirmed the situation.