Food Prices and Ram Costs Surge, Prompting Outrage in Kaduna

With food prices, rams, and other essential goods surging ahead of tomorrow’s Sallah celebration, Muslims across Kaduna and surrounding areas have pledged that nothing will deter them from fulfilling their religious duties on May 26, 2026.

Interviews conducted on Tuesday with a cross‑section of Kaduna’s Muslim community revealed gratitude for being able to observe the 2026 Sallah, with many stating that “whether or not an animal sacrifice is performed, they will carry out their spiritual obligation.”

Alhaji Murtala Jimoh, Managing Director of Kaduna Motors, explained that animal sacrifice is not a compulsory spiritual requirement. “It is necessary to sacrifice an animal, especially a ram, but if you cannot afford one, there is no penalty. You worship God wholeheartedly and perform your obligation within your means,” he said.

Hajia Salamatu Moses, who was shocked by the high costs of foodstuffs and rams, accused sellers of timing their sales to the Sallah period to exploit devout Muslims. “I wonder why these people waited until this period to extort money from Muslims,” she remarked. She added that while prices have always been high, the festive season exacerbates the situation, noting that “this is a holy month and everyone must account for what they sow.”

Contrary to her view, a ram seller at Kaduna Central Market, Mallam Idrisu Konduga, attributed the price rise to insecurity. He said that people no longer rear rams and other livestock because bandits can raid their homes at any time, and those who still keep animals charge higher prices.

In an interview, Mallam Musa Lali, Chairman of the Cattle Rearers Association, Kaduna State chapter, said that the scarcity of rams and the cost of transporting them to markets have driven up prices. “No businessman wants to sell at a loss. Therefore, most of us who sell these animals add our expenses—including feeding and providing proper healthcare—to the price. These costs inevitably raise the selling price,” he explained.

A member of the State House of Assembly, who preferred to remain anonymous, noted that the high cost of foodstuffs, especially animals, during festive periods is a longstanding issue. He said that businessmen and women seek profits and sometimes store products to sell at a premium during holidays.