As the Muslim holy month of Ramadan commences, traders in Ogun State continue to voice their concerns over poor patronage by customers.
Several traders, speaking to Saving Point Media on Monday, attributed this situation to the low purchasing power of customers, resulting in decreased sales compared to previous years.
Market women, including a pepper seller, expressed disappointment despite the usual rise in commodity prices, especially consumables, during the Ramadan fasting period.
A perishable items dealer also echoed these sentiments, highlighting the economic downturn in the country as a contributing factor to the lackluster business performance.
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A meat seller emphasized the unusual nature of the current situation during Ramadan, noting a scarcity of funds among customers due to prevailing economic challenges.
He lamented that these economic realities have significantly reduced the purchasing power of many customers.
Furthermore, a buyer voiced concerns over the soaring prices of essential food items such as rice, millet, flour, and sugar, which have become increasingly burdensome as the fasting period approaches.
With sugar priced at over N5,500 per measure, rice exceeding N3,500 per measure, millet at N1,800 per slot, and a crate of eggs fetching N3,300, he questioned how people are expected to sustain themselves during Ramadan.
In light of these challenges, the buyer appealed to food item dealers and retailers in the state to consider reducing their prices significantly during the Holy month, demonstrating solidarity and compassion with those observing Ramadan.
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