As Muslim faithfuls prepare for the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations, the economic situation is casting a shadow over their preparations. A recent visit to Bodija Market by Ibadan City Announcer revealed that residents are grappling with rising costs and trying to cut expenses wherever possible.
Traders mentioned that the costs of rice, cooking oil, and other staples have nearly doubled in recent months, thereby reducing patronage compared to previous years.
In chats with several residents, many expressed how inflation has reduced their purchasing power. The duo of Mrs Dolapo Salam and Mrs Anifat Raji noted that they are yet to get necessary items in preparation for Eid. “We are struggling to make ends meet. This year, our children will wear old clothes, and we are still hoping Allah will provide for us to celebrate properly,” they shared
Similarly, Mrs Sukroh Badero, lamented the lack of funds to aid her family’s preparations for Eid. “We can’t compare last year’s celebrations with this year, but we hope that God will make things easy before the day,” she stated
One of the imams in a local mosque, Adebayo Muhideen, advised families not to unnecessarily stress their budgets and encouraged those with the capacity to share with their neighbors. “This is not the time to run into debts because of Eid celebrations,” he urged.
The situation at the ram stalls in Bodija market further highlights the economic challenges. Ram sellers are lamenting the low patronage they have experienced so far. Rams that used to sell for #45,000 are now priced at #80,000, those previously at #80,000 now sell for #110,000, and rams priced at #120,000 have jumped to between #170,000-#180,000. Goats also sell between #45,000-#65,000.
A ram seller, Mr Muhideen Olaleye, noted that cost of transportation and hike in ram feeds are reasons behind the surge in ram prices. “We used to transport one ram between #2000 -#2500 but now it costs #6000 to do so from the North,” he said
Another seller, Alhaja Salaudeen Idowu noted that sales is currently dry. “We have not sold much yet, we understand the economic situation in the country. We are just hoping that people will turn up in the next few days,” she hoped
ram buyer, Alh Kamaroudeen Raji, shared the financial strain on his pockets “I can’t afford to buy it myself this year, I am hoping that God blesses my children to buy for me,” he shared
Another buyer, Mr Nurudeen, also shared his disappointment. “I came to the market hoping to buy a ram, but the prices are just too high, I have to rework on my budget,” he exclaimed.
As Eid al-Adha draws nearer, both sellers and buyers are hoping for a change. Ram sellers are optimistic that patronage will increase. Many believe that last-minute shoppers will turn up despite the high prices.
Reports by Adeola Oladele for IbadanCity ANNOUNCER
