Nigerian Muslims celebrated Eid-El-Kabir amid severe economic hardship and soaring food inflation, with prices of essential items like tomatoes and rams reaching unprecedented levels. Traders and consumers lamented the high costs, urging government intervention to stabilize the market and alleviate financial strain during the festive period.
Nigerian Muslims joined the global celebration of Eid-El-Kabir amid worsening economic hardship and rising food inflation. The festivities were subdued due to skyrocketing prices of food items and transportation.
Inflation peaked at 33.95% in May, with food inflation above 40%, according to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics. In Abuja's Mararaba Market, a basket of tomatoes now costs N200,000, up from N40,000 in April. Rams, essential for the celebration, saw prices soar above N80,000, reaching up to N500,000. Traders and consumers alike expressed frustration, highlighting the impact of high transportation costs, insecurity, and multiple taxes.
Many struggled to fulfill their religious obligations due to the unaffordable prices, with some returning home disappointed. The economic situation has also affected small businesses, with traders lamenting low patronage and high costs.
The government was urged to intervene and regulate market prices to alleviate the hardship faced by citizens during such important festivities.
