Lagos Residents Disappointed as Discounted Food Markets Prove Costlier Than Expected.
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.
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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.
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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.
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