Respite as food prices drop in Ilorin

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

There is a sigh of relief in Ilorin as the prices of major food items have dropped by at least 20%, according to a market survey conducted by a Western Post correspondent on Friday.

A visit to Mandate Ultra-Modern Market in Ilorin West Local Government Area showed that a bag of rice, which was sold for N85,000 a few months ago, is now being sold for N67,000.

Similarly, a bag of white beans that previously cost N135,000 is now being sold for N85,000.

Further findings revealed that a bag of onions, which was sold for N100,000, now costs N80,000.

Speaking with a pepper seller, Nura Mohammed, he noted that the prices of pepper (Scotch Bonnet) and tomatoes have increased slightly compared to a few weeks ago. A small basket of Scotch Bonnet, previously sold for N5,000, now costs N7,500, while a big basket is priced at N44,000. Meanwhile, a small basket of tomatoes sells for N4,500, while a big basket goes for N55,000.

The drop in food prices has been attributed to improved security in the northern part of the country, where most of these food items are cultivated and transported to the North-Central and South-West regions.

Previously, the spike in food prices was largely due to insecurity in the northern regions, where farmers planted in large quantities but harvested little or nothing due to attacks by herders.

Another factor that contributed to the price hike was the high cost of transportation from the northern region to the North-Central and South-West.

As Muslims across the globe commence the Ramadan fast, it is hoped that food prices will continue to decline, making it easier for average Nigerians to afford essential items and observe the Islamic rite without hardship.