Some residents and foodstuff traders in Lagos have expressed differing views over low patronage and the cost of foodstuffs during this year’s Easter celebration.
The residents and traders spoke in separate interviews on Saturday in Lagos on Easter sales and patronage.
A foodstuff trader at Iyana-Ipaja Market, Mr Samuel Nwabueze, decried the low patronage during this year’s Easter.
Nwabueze attributed the development to the low purchasing power of Nigerians.
“Sales have been low since Good Friday. The patronage this year does not reflect a festive period.
“The demand for foodstuffs is like any regular weekend, nothing special.
“I am only hoping that a few loyal customers will still patronise us more during this Easter period,” Nwabueze said.
Another trader at Ile-Epo Market, popularly known as Alhaji Yellow, said patronage remained normal with no significant increase.
“People are buying as they would on a normal weekend.
“There are no exceptional sales, but we are glad to sell to those who can still afford to buy.
“The prices of food items have not increased significantly. A 50kg bag of rice sells between N65,000 and N85,000, depending on the brand.
“A bag of beans sells between N75,000 and N80,000, also depending on the brand.
“We still hope for improved sales despite the current situation,” he said.
A consumer in the Aboru area, Mrs Lilian Agunbiade, said she almost forgot it was Easter due to lack of funds.
“I didn’t even realise it was Easter because I do not have enough money to shop for the celebration.
“Although food prices seem fair, fewer people are buying. A neighbour bought two baskets of tomatoes at a good price due to low demand.
“We still hope for a joyful Easter celebration, even if some of us cannot afford much,” Agunbiade said.
Another consumer in the Shasha area, Mrs Ajuma Ajeka, said she would celebrate Easter regardless of financial constraints.
Ajeka noted that food prices were relatively affordable.
“Easter is meant to be celebrated, whether one has money or not.
“I did not buy a full basket of tomatoes because it would be too much. Instead, I bought two buckets of large tomatoes for N3,000 each, which I consider fair since tomatoes are out of season.
“A basket of peppers sold for N3,500, while onions were more affordable. I bought a large portion for N2,000.
“I believe the prices are reasonable for those willing to celebrate,” she said.
Also, a resident in the Dopemu area, Mrs Abiodun Green, said food prices were relatively affordable this Easter.
She added that she would only purchase what she could afford.
“We thank God for Easter, but I will only buy what I can afford for myself and my children.
“I believe food prices have not increased excessively this year, and people should live within their means,” she said.