By Bonaventure Alufo
The customary bustle of mechanic workshops in Amawbia was replaced by an unusual silence on Thursday, April 29, 2026, highlighting the prevailing economic distress affecting residents and artisans.
A visit to a major workshop in the area revealed only three vehicles undergoing repairs, while several others lay abandoned and covered in dust a stark contrast to the usual queues of vehicles awaiting servicing and mechanical work.
Mr. Ebuka Okafor, a mechanic at the workshop, disclosed that the facility was previously fully engaged from early morning until dusk with engine overhauls, transmission repairs, and routine maintenance. “Now, only a handful of customers bring their vehicles. Most cite financial constraints,” he stated.
Mr. Augustus Ndibe, Auto electrician, attributed the decline to escalating costs. “The prevailing economic hardship is evident. The prices of fuel and spare parts have risen sharply. Many vehicle owners now prefer to park their cars or manage them despite significant faults because they cannot afford the cost of repairs,” he explained.
Mr. Maxwell, another mechanic, pointed to three vehicles that have remained idle at the workshop for over a year, noting that the owners lacked the financial capacity to undertake repairs. He added that demand for routine maintenance services such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tyre services has declined significantly, with customers only seeking assistance in cases of total vehicle breakdown.
The mechanics expressed concern over the adverse impact on their daily earnings and appealed for economic interventions to alleviate the hardship and enable them to cater for their families.
Bonaventure is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
