By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
(C) Culture Intelligence.
(C) Google.
As Muslims in Lokoja, Kogi State, north central Nigeria,prepare to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr in less than 24 hours,excitement in the area is mixed with economic anxiety as residents grapple with rising petrol prices, soaring food costs, and fluctuating energy expenses.
A market survey conducted by The Reporters on Saturday in Lokoja revealed a sharp increase in petrol prices, with some filling stations selling a litre at N930 and N935 up from N885 and N895 recorded earlier.
However,the hike comes at a time when the price of cooking gas is declining from N1,200 per kg to N900 for the same quantity,presenting a paradox for households already struggling with high food costs.
During our visit to the old and new markets in Lokoja, traders and shoppers lamented the skyrocketing prices of essential foodstuffs, a trend they say has worsened as the festive period approaches.
Many households said they were are forced to adjust their budgets, prioritizing necessities while cutting back on celebratory expenses.
Similarly, transportation fares have surged, affecting both commuters and traders who rely on daily movement for their livelihoods.
Commercial drivers blame the fuel price hike, warning that further increases could cripple business activities in the state capital, if petrol continues to rise.
Many Muslims who spoke with our correspondent at Gadumo quarters in Lokoja said that with Eid-el-Fitr drawing closer, the economic strain has left many of them questioning how they will balance religious festivities with the harsh realities of high cost of living.
Meanwhile, Saudi authorities have declared Sunday,March 30,2025 marking Edel-el-fitr celebration, according to Platforms Africa.
