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Residents Lament As Lagos Discounted Food Markets More Costly Than Regular Markets
Residents of Lagos State have expressed disappointment with the newly introduced discounted food markets, asserting that they are more expensive than regular markets. Despite assurances of affordability, locals have lamented the high prices of food items in these markets.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu initiated the discounted food markets, branded as “Ounje Eko,” with the promise of offering a 25% discount on staple food items like rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper. Operating exclusively on Sundays across 57 locations in the state, the markets were intended to alleviate the financial strain on residents due to soaring living costs.
However, the reality on the ground has left many residents disillusioned. Numerous videos shared by civic group Societal Concern on TikTok illustrate the frustration of residents over what they perceive as significant discrepancies in pricing.
While some food items may exhibit marginally reduced prices compared to regular markets, others have witnessed notable increases, according to residents’ observations. One resident highlighted the disparity, noting, “They said they wanted to reduce the prices by 25%, but they did not do that.”
The grievances aired in the videos were echoed by another resident who remarked, “The food is very expensive.” They detailed examples of inflated prices, citing instances where items were being sold at rates higher than those found in conventional markets.
For instance, a “Derika” of rice (850 grams) typically priced at N1,500 outside was allegedly being sold for N1,200 in the discounted market. Similarly, a “Derika” of Honey Beans, priced at N1,000 elsewhere, reportedly commanded a hefty price tag of N6,000 for 5kg at the discounted market.
Residents voiced their discontent, calling on Governor Sanwo-Olu to honor his promise of reducing prices by 25%. They emphasized the need for a significant reduction across all items, asserting that only eggs exhibited a noticeable price decrease.
Reflecting on her decision to patronize the discounted market, one resident admitted, “If we go to the market, the prices are cheaper than what we are seeing here.” Expressing regret over her choice, she highlighted an instance where beans sold for N6,200, far exceeding the approximate market price of N5,000 for the equivalent quantity.
As residents grapple with the unexpected price disparities at the discounted food markets, calls for government intervention to rectify the situation grow louder.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
In commemoration of this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the House of Representatives will lead a landmark march on Monday, November 25, 2024, along with other strategic activities as part of its unwavering commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement issued by the HoR spokesperson, Rotimi Akin, Jr on Saturday.
According to him the march, which starts at 8:00 AM, will bring together over 1,000 participants – including Representatives and members of the public – on a symbolic walk from the National Assembly to the Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force.
This demonstration of solidarity will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action to safeguard vulnerable populations and ensure accountability for perpetrators of GBV.
“This march and the associated activities are not just symbolic gestures, they reflect our resolve and call to action against gender-based violence head-on,” said Hon. Abbas Tajudeen,, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“We stand united in the fight to protect the rights and dignity of all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable. Together, through collective action and legislative reforms, we can build a society where safety, justice, and equality prevail.”
Beyond the march, the 10th House of Representatives in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023 – 2027) has outlined *key activities to sustain awareness and action throughout the 16 Days of Activism:*
1. *Sash Demonstration Ceremony* – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Members of the House will don orange sashes, symbolising solidarity with the fight against GBV, during plenary sessions throughout the campaign period.
2. *Convergence of State Assembly Speakers* – Monday, December 9, 2024
A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative strategies for combating GBV nationwide.
3. *National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 -* Tuesday, December 10, 2024
This summit will conclude the 16 Days of Activism with discussions on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives championed by the House.
The House of Representatives invites all Nigerians to *participate in this historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024.* Participants will receive orange T-shirts—the official colour of the United Nations campaign to end violence against women—symbolising hope for a future free of violence.
*Details of the March:*
• *Date:* Monday, November 25, 2024
• *Time:* 8:00 AM
• *Starting Point:* Speaker’s Car Park, National Assembly
• *End Point:* Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Headquarters
Gender-based violence continues to devastate families and communities across Nigeria. The 10th House of Representatives however, remains steadfast in driving systemic reforms, fostering collaboration, and championing accountability to address this pervasive issue.
Together, let us take a decisive stand for justice, equality, and the protection of human rights, paving the way for a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
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