This study explores the socio-cultural effects of fuel subsidy removal on community life in Okigwe, an area in south-eastern Nigeria. Recently Nigeria’s government decision to eliminate fuel subsidies has led to a sharp increase in petroleum products, significantly impacting on household budgets, transportation costs and on businesses. This study seeks to understand the socio-economic and cultural implications for the residents of Okigwe, focusing on tourism, cultural festivals, marriage practices, burial rites/social events, community cohesion and the coping mechanisms adopted to mitigate the impact. With a survey of 400 household members, analysis reveals that, rising petroleum product costs have impact on household income and expenditure as affirmed by over 70.6% of respondents. They noted the cost of transportation has affected ability to attend family and cultural events. While there has been a sharp decline on the participation of cultural festivals and the visitation of tourists outside of the community. Marriage and burial activities are also declining in participation within the communities. The research highlights policy decisions and recommends interventions of Government to harmonize the income levels of the various sectors of the national economy and improve on the minimum wage. Policy makers should draw up new approaches to promote culture and tourism. Government to promote mass transit schemes to alleviate transport burden. Since culture changes, there should be a revision of cultural demands on burial and marriage rites to promote community participation. The cultural changes may lead to cultural drift.