Ram Market Faces Low Patronage and Rising Prices Ahead of Eid-El-Kabir Amid Economic Challenges

Ram Market Faces Low Patronage and Rising Prices Ahead of Eid-El-Kabir Amid Economic Challenges

As Nigerians prepare for Eid-El-Kabir celebrations, ram traders in markets across Ibafo, Kara, and Agege have reported a significant drop in patronage, citing soaring prices and economic challenges as key reasons.

In separate interviews, traders expressed concern over reduced sales compared to last year, attributing the decline to increased ram prices driven by higher costs of procurement from northern regions. They explained that the expenses associated with sourcing rams have surged, leading to higher selling prices.

Rabiu Abubakar, a trader at Ibafo Market, lamented the poor patronage, noting that last year’s sales were more robust. “If you were here last year, you’d see more people. This year, sales are slow,” he said. He added that the cost of rams has risen from N150,000–N180,000 to N250,000–N280,000, marking about a 55% increase, which impacts their pricing.

Similarly, Sabo Sheu, another ram seller, highlighted transportation costs from the North as a contributing factor to the high prices. He reported that customer complaints about the prices have led to decreased sales and fewer buyers in the markets.

At the Agege abattoir market in Lagos, traders observed a sparse turnout. Olalere Oriyomi, a trader there, noted a substantial price hike from last year, with rams now selling for N500,000, up from N350,000. He expressed concern over the low patronage, which is unusual given the proximity to Eid, and attributed the decline to the high costs.

Another trader, Abu Muhammed, pointed to the high cost of animal feed as a factor driving up ram prices. “Feed is expensive, and that affects how much we sell. People can’t afford the higher prices, so sales are slow,” he explained.

A trader who preferred anonymity said many buyers are compelled to purchase despite the high costs, citing tradition as a motivating factor. “People are buying because it’s part of our religious practice, even if they have to stretch their finances to do so,” he stated.

In Kara Market along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, traders echoed similar sentiments. Idris Ishera noted an oversupply of rams but a sluggish market. “Prices are high, and people aren’t buying like last year. It’s because there’s no money around,” he said. He revealed that minimum ram prices have risen from N150,000–N200,000 last year to N250,000 and above, with some rams reaching N1 million.

Despite the challenging trading conditions, Ishera appreciated the state government’s efforts in managing traffic along the expressway, which he said has prevented congestion during the festive period.

Meanwhile, Ogun State authorities reaffirmed their commitment to residents’ safety during and after the celebrations. Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Ogun governor, stated that the government does not set prices but collaborates with security agencies to ensure peace and security. He urged residents to drive safely and avoid speeding during the festivities.