Despite widespread protests against economic hardships, food prices in Nigeria continue to soar, exacerbating the plight of citizens who are calling on the government to intervene.
A recent market survey conducted by reporters revealed a significant uptick in the prices of essential food items compared to previous surveys. The survey, spanning Mararaba in Nasarawa State, Jos in Plateau State, and Ijebu in Ogun State, highlighted the concerning trend.
For instance, a 12kg bag of semo, a maize-based flour commonly used for making ‘swallow,’ has seen its price surge to N13,200 from N6,000 just a year ago. Similarly, the cost of cooking gas has more than doubled, with a 12kg cylinder now selling for N15,500 compared to N7,500 previously. Even smaller cylinders have experienced a significant price hike, with a 4kg cylinder now fetching N5,000, up from N1,200.
In Ijebu, Ogun State, the price of a bag of sachet water has tripled to N620, leading to a per-piece cost of N31. These steep increases in food prices have only added to the already challenging economic conditions faced by Nigerians.
While the surge in food prices predates the current administration, recent policy changes, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, have further fueled inflation.
Petrol prices have skyrocketed from N145 to N630, contributing to the overall rise in food costs as the value of the naira continues to plummet against the dollar, reaching N1,825 per dollar.
Protests have erupted across the country, with citizens expressing their frustration over the unrelenting economic Hardship. Chants of “Tinubu ole” reverberated in the streets of Ibadan during a recent protest, echoing similar demonstrations in Osun, Niger, Kano, and Lagos states.
In response to public outcry, the government has taken some measures to alleviate the crisis. Mr. Tinubu directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release 42,000 metric tonnes of grains, including maize, millet, and garri.
Additionally, efforts are underway to crack down on food hoarders, with the National Security Adviser and law enforcement agencies tasked with ensuring food distribution and combating artificial shortages.
However, amidst these efforts, the Nigerian Labour Congress has announced plans for a nationwide protest on February 27th and 28th to demand economic relief.
Despite warnings from the State Security Service regarding potential unrest, the call for action underscores the urgency of addressing the escalating food crisis in Nigeria. #Hardship