Protests and strike threats as petrol price doubles

Petrol prices soared yesterday after the Nigerian government removed a fuel subsidy, sparking outrage from consumers and unions. Queues grew at petrol stations in Lagos as motorists tried to beat the rise.

Prices have increased from 65 naira (26p) a litre to at least 140 naira in filling stations and from 100 naira to at least 200 on the black market, where many Nigerians buy their fuel. The increase may threaten the fragile peace in the oil-rich nation.