By Njoku Chijioke
Abuja residents are reeling from an unprecedented 95% surge in food prices as the holy month of fasting begins, making basic necessities unaffordable for many.
Staples like rice, beans, and maize have seen steep increases, while fresh produce has skyrocketed by as much as 150%, leaving households struggling to cope.
“I went to the market to buy essentials, but prices had more than doubled. I had to leave empty-handed,” lamented Aisha Mohammed, a frustrated resident.
Market traders attribute the crisis to soaring demand, high transportation costs, and supply shortages.
“The fasting season has driven up demand, and transportation costs have worsened the situation,” explained Alhaji Usman, a trader at Wuse Market.
With no immediate relief in sight, the Abuja Residents Association is urging government intervention to stabilize prices and ease the burden on citizens.
“The government must act swiftly to ensure food remains affordable,” stressed chairman John Akwu.
As the fasting period progresses, families are adjusting by seeking alternatives at farmers’ markets or turning to cheaper imports, hoping for urgent measures to curb the crisis.
