Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
It is imperative for every Muslim to perform HADAYA sacrifice at the month of Zulhijja as a strong form of ibadat worshipping in fulfilling the saying of the Prophet (SWA).
It is in fulfillment of this that Muslim faithful trooped out in their numbers to buy rams, sheep, camel, goats, cows based on their choices and economic realities.
The Journal Nigeria went round assessing markets in Yobe, Borno and Gombe on a price survey. The reality in Potiskum and other markets visited indicates that prices have tripled compared to last year, while buyers complained that their income remained the same within the period.
A ram seller in Potiskum, Mallam Hassan, lamented the hike in price, saying it has affected sales in an unprecedented manner, as most buyers are off the market a few days before the festival. He ram sold N50,000 last year is now N190,000, that sold for N80,000 is now N300,000 while the one sold for N100,000 is now N500,000. For goats, the one that sold N30,000 in the same period last year now goes for N90,000 , while sheep sold N70,000 last year is now N170,000 and that of N90, 000 is now N300,000.
The Chairman of ram market in Damaturu, Bulama Dadi, said exportation of ram is one of the causes of this hike as exporters buy in larger quantities and at any price because they will eventually sell in foreign currencies. He called for charity by wealthy people to enable the less privileged to also partake in the festival.
Adam Musa, a resident of Gombe, said that the economic policies of this administration drives Nigerians backward, expressing worry that many people will not be able to afford sacrificial animals this year.
He added that since the removal of subsidy, prices of items have gone beyond the reach of the ordinary citizens.
