As Nigerians prepare for the Eid-El-Kabir celebration, ram traders across markets in Lagos and Ogun states are lamenting poor sales and low patronage, attributing the downturn to the skyrocketing prices of rams and the prevailing economic hardship.
From the bustling Kara Market along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to Agege and Ibafo, traders told our correspondents that sales have been significantly lower compared to last year, despite the availability of rams.
“Last year’s sales were impressive, but this year has been slow,” said Rabiu Abubakar, a trader at the Ibafo market. “Rams we sold for ₦150,000 – ₦180,000 now go for ₦250,000 – ₦280,000. The cost of sourcing rams from the North has increased sharply.”
In Agege’s abattoir market, where pre-Sallah activity is usually brisk, traders said the market has been noticeably scanty.
“Rams that sold for ₦350,000 last year now cost ₦500,000. People are not coming to buy like before,” said Olalere Oriyomi, a trader at the market.
Sabo Sheu, another seller, pointed to the high cost of transport from Northern Nigeria and the rising cost of animal feed as key contributors to the price surge. “Now we just sit, hoping customers show up. Before, we sold out fast.”
At Kara, trader Idris Ishera explained that while there’s an abundance of rams in the market, prices range from ₦250,000 to as high as ₦1 million, with very few buyers willing or able to pay.
“There’s no money in the country. We have big rams, good ones, but people are not buying,” he said.
He, however, commended government efforts in managing traffic in the area. “There’s been no congestion this year, and we’re grateful for that.”
Meanwhile, Abu Muhammed, a seller at Agege, said most buyers are only purchasing out of religious obligation. “They’ve celebrated Eid with a ram for years; they’re buying the cheapest they can find just to keep the tradition.”
In response to the situation, Ogun State Government says it is prioritizing the safety and security of residents throughout the Sallah festivities.
“We don’t control prices—it’s a matter of demand and supply,” said Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy. “We are working with security agencies to ensure a peaceful celebration.”
The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 6 and Monday, June 9 as public holidays for the Eid celebration.
