FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL AND EFFECTS ON HOUSEHOLDS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES OF ORUK ANAM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, AKWA IBOM STATE

ABSTRACT The removal of fuel subsidy in Nigeria has sparked significant unrest, particularly in rural communities like Oruk Anam L.G.A. The abrupt policy change has led to increased transportation costs and essential goods, straining households reliant on subsistence farming. Consequently, purchasing power has diminished, access to healthcare and education has declined, and food insecurity has risen, intensifying socio-economic disparities and lowering living standards. This study examined the impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal and Effects on Households in Rural Communities of Oruk Anam L.G.A of Akwa Ibom State, more specifically, it focused on assessing the impact on the standard of living, evaluating access to essential services such as education and healthcare, analyzing food security and nutritional status, examining implications for rural livelihoods, as well as understanding employment dynamics and income generation opportunities. Succinctly, the study utilized Karl Marx (1818) Social Conflict theory as its theoretical framework and employed a survey research design. Furthermore, the Taro Yamane sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Data collection included both primary and secondary sources, which were analyzed using chi-square statistical tool. The findings showed, amongst others, that the availability and affordability of essential goods and services in communities in Oruk Anam L.G.A have changed since the removal of the fuel subsidy. The study recommended, amongst others, that the federal government should implement targeted social welfare programs to support low-income households and mitigate the decline in their standard of living.