BY CHIKA KWAMBA/ OGORAMAKA AMOS/PERCY IDUBOR/RITA OYIBOKA/JUDITH OBIANUA
Traders, Customers Struggle
As Christians worldwide celebrate Easter, a season of renewal and abundance, many families are grappling with soaring food prices that have made traditional celebrations a financial burden. Market women and traders report significant increases in the cost of essential foodstuffs compared to last year.
The Pointer explores the economic realities facing traders and consumers this Easter, examining how inflation, rising transportation costs, and fluctuating supply chains have impacted food prices.
At the popular Rumuokoro Market, Mrs. Ngozi Okoro, a tomato and pepper seller, shakes her head in frustration. “Last year, a basket of tomatoes sold for ₦15,000. Now, the same basket is ₦35,000. How will people buy?” she asks. Similar complaints echo across other sections of the market. Mrs Juliana Wobi told our correspondent that basket fresh pepper which was sold for N30,000 – N35000 is now sold for N60,000. She said, “Before, we could count fresh pepper for customers from N100 but now the least amount we can sell is N500 we don’t even make gain on it at all”.
Market Survey
Rice – A 50kg bag of local rice, which sold for N90,000 – N110, 000 now costs between ₦75,000 and ₦85,000. Full Custard paint of dry pepper – N11, 500 which was N7, 500 – N8000. Painter of crayfish – which was formerly N5000-N6000 now goes for N10,000.
Some consumers express gratitude for being able to afford at least a modest meal, even if not as lavish as before. Mr Jackson Silas says “On Easter day I will manage and cook the rice I have in the house maybe buy a little meat to add. There’s not much celebration on my end”
Mrs Cynthia Esset a mother of two told our correspondent “Well… I am grateful for life at least my family can afford the little meal on our table, especially with Easter falling into a time where the month hasn’t ended for us who are salary earners”
Mr Jonathan Ehi said “With the state of the economy, one has to do what his power can reach. It is not a time to overdo things. Easter is time to rejoice over the resurrection of our saviour but the economy isn’t conducive for us to celebrate as we should.”
Speaking to our correspondent in Asaba, Nneoma Medua a trader in Obogonogo Market said ‘’Easter season this year is not encouraging compared to last year. She noted that produces this year is higher than last.
Medua added that the price of rice this Easter is higher than last year. The price of rice is not stable, it rising and falling but this season, the price increased again from N75,000 to N90,000. Though it increased during the Salah celebration and up till now it keeps increasing’’.
She also said other things like vegetable oil have dropped while tin tomatoes remain the same price, adding that people are not buying things this year like last year. ‘’You can even see for yourself the market is quiet as if nothing is happening’’.
According to Joy Iheanacho, a chicken seller, ‘’chicken is more expansive this year. The least amount you can get this year is N7000 which is not too big and mature. Sales this year, she said, is low, even as she expressed hope of improved patronage.
Meanwhile Mohamed Sanu, an onions seller, said that onions is costlier this year than last year. He said that despite we are in onions season it is still high, people are buying but not like last year he concluded.
Economy Tough On Civil Servants, Tenants
Speaking with The Pointer, Asaba-based secondary school teacher Mrs Blessing Ojogan noted that this year’s Easter will be unlike previous ones.
“There is no plan for a celebration. With the way prices keep rising and salaries remain the same, the means simply aren’t there. After church service on Sunday, we’ll eat what we normally do and go about the day as usual. We thank God for life, even if things are tough.
“To me, Easter means hope; that no matter how bad things get, God can still turn it around. I believe Nigeria will rise again, but until then, we keep praying and pushing,” she said. On how she’s coping with rising rent and stagnant income, she voiced:
“To be honest, rent is the biggest headache right now. My landlord increased our rent by ₦80,000, and we had to beg for extra months to make up the balance. Our house hunting is taking us to the outskirts of Asaba, but the cost of transportation would cancel out whatever we save on rent. Salary has not reflected the prices of rent, food, fuel, and school fees have tripled. We’re just surviving by grace.”
Samuel Akirinbola, a Benin-based tenant and realtor, shared similar sentiments. “I’ve been living in my current house since 2017. My landlord increased the rent last year and says he’ll do so again this year. But I’ve told him, if he does, I’ll pack out and he’ll wait months to get a new tenant. We’re not quarrelling, but he knows the country is hard. How do you expect me to pay over ₦600,000 overnight in an unstable economy?
Speaking about the significance of Easter, he noted, “Resurrection, to me, means that something dead can come alive again. Right now, many of us feel dead inside with hope gone. But I hold on to my faith. Maybe one day, things will change and Nigeria too will rise from this suffering.”
For businesswoman and mother of five, Mrs Joy Emegha, “Sincerely, it has not been easy. My rent is due in June, and I’m already losing sleep over it. After paying school fees and handling basic bills, there’s barely anything left. We’re just managing, cutting out unnecessary expenses, and hoping the government remembers the citizens exist.
“To me, resurrection means hope. It means that despite the hardship, the constant hike in prices, and the uncertainty, there’s still a chance that things will turn around. Nigeria needs a resurrection of conscience and leadership. I believe God has been faithful in keeping us alive and healthy, even if the system is failing us,” she said.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ray Channels Transport Ltd. Benin City, Mr Raymond Eboigbe said, ‘’The economy has significantly influenced how Nigerians celebrate holidays like Easter in various ways:
‘’Reduced Spending Power: Economic challenges, such as inflation and rising costs of living, have led to reduced disposable income for many families. That’s Money left for consumption after the deduction of savings. As a result, celebrations may be scaled back, with fewer extravagant purchases for food, clothing, and gifts.
‘’Shift in Traditions: Traditional practices, such as large family gatherings and communal feasts, may be altered. Families might opt for smaller gatherings or simpler meals to accommodate tighter budgets.
‘’Increased Focus on Religious Aspects: With economic pressures, some Nigerians may place greater emphasis on the spiritual significance of Easter rather than the material aspects of the celebration. This could lead to increased church attendance and participation in religious activities.
‘’Alternative Celebrations: Some families may seek more affordable ways to celebrate, such as organizing potluck-style meals where each guest brings a dish, rather than hosting large, costly feasts.
‘’Travel Limitations: Economic constraints may limit travel, which is often a part of holiday celebrations in Nigeria. Many people may choose to stay home rather than travel to their hometowns or visit relatives, impacting the traditional family reunions that often occur during holidays.
‘’Local Markets and Bargaining: The economic situation may also affect how people shop for holiday goods. Many may turn to local markets for better prices and engage in bargaining to stretch their budgets further.
‘’Community Support: In times of economic hardship, there may be an increase in community support initiatives, where individuals and organizations come together to provide food and assistance to those in need during the holiday season.
‘’Overall, while the essence of the holiday may remain, the way it is celebrated can be significantly impacted by economic conditions, leading to more modest and resourceful approaches to traditional festivities.
Clerics Preach Hope
According to the Resident Pastor, Living Faith Church Owerri, Imo State. Amu-Osagie Samuel, the core message of Easter remains unchanged – the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a powerful symbol of hope, redemption, and salvation.
‘’I encourage Nigerians to focus on the spiritual significance of Easter, celebrating the gift of salvation and eternal life. While economic challenges are real, our faith reminds us that God is our provider, and He offers hope and peace amidst uncertainty.
In the words of another cleric, Emmanuel Adeoba, ‘’the message of Easter is renewed hope and assurance to everyone that there is light at the end of the tunnel. And that every situation should be taken to the Lord in prayers.’’
Similarly, the Assistant Resident Pastor of Living Faith Church Okpanam, Elevated Olusanya stressed, ‘’We must understand that the Easter’s core message today remains unbending and unchanged despite the current economic fluctuations and climate; and what is the message: It’s a celebration of hope, renewal, and the sacrifice Jesus made for humanity.
“So this year’s Easter message remains a powerful reminder of hope, renewal, and the transformative power of love, despite the current economic climate. At its core, Easter celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection, symbolizing victory over darkness, despair, and death.
“However, considering the current economic condition and climate, many families might face challenges in celebrating Easter traditionally and in their various spheres.
“So, listed below are some ways to observe the holiday without putting one’s self under unnecessary duress and pressure: Maintain simplicity in the celebrations: Focus on meaningful activities like family gatherings, prayer, spreading the goodness to others by engaging in evangelism and also having reflections on one’s readiness for eternity after the life here on earth.
“Finally, in the face of the current economic challenges, I encourage the believers out there with this Easter message: Find Hope: Draw strength from Jesus’ resurrection and the promise of a better tomorrow. Practice Love and Forgiveness: Embody the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation in their lives and communities.
In the words of Pastor Douglas Okoh, ‘’Truly, Easter stands as the greatest event in Christianity for it centres on the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—the Son of the living God.
‘’I encourage all members to keep in mind the true essence of this sacred season. Let each person take time to sincerely reflect on their life and examine whether it aligns with God’s standards and the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.
‘’No doubt, the presence of hunger and hardship in our society is all too real. Many are weighed down by burdens such as inflation, unemployment, rising rent, and daily uncertainties. These challenges may understandably affect the outlook and disposition of Christians during this Easter season.
‘’Yet, even amid these trials, the resurrection story still speaks powerfully. It remains a beacon of hope—a reminder of the unmatchable sacrifice of the Son of God for our redemption and eternal victory.
‘’We continue to hope, pray, and trust God that things will improve for every individual, family, and community. May the power of the resurrection inspire resilience, renew faith, and awaken joy in our hearts despite the season’s difficulties.
