The 2023 Christmas season in Nigeria is being marked by widespread somberness among the majority of citizens. This can be attributed to the prevailing economic crisis that has compelled people to observe Christmas with restrained festivities.
The removal of fuel subsidies in May 2023 has led to a relentless surge in the prices of essential commodities, hindering the ability of many Nigerians to engage in traditional Christmas celebrations. The escalation in transportation fares has further compounded the situation, preventing numerous individuals from reuniting with their loved ones during this festive season.
The escalating cost of food items, including rice, chicken, and goat, has reached unprecedented levels, with a significant impact on households. For instance, the price of a bag of local rice, previously sold at N44,000, has now soared to as high as N61,000 in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
In contrast to previous years, where families typically purchased goats and chickens to enhance their celebrations, the exorbitant prices in 2023 have disrupted these customary practices. A goat, which could be acquired for as low as N25,000 last year, now costs around N70,000, primarily due to increased transportation expenses related to fuel issues.
While President Bola Tinubu approved a 50% discount for inter-state road travel during the festive period, the implementation has faced challenges. Travelers have encountered difficulties securing affordable tickets, and many have been left stranded in parks due to the excessive charges imposed by transport companies.
Despite efforts by the Federal Government to alleviate the burden on travelers through agreements with select transport companies, such as GIG, Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata, and Area Motor, complaints about high fares persist. Motorists and passengers express frustration over the lack of justification for the fare hikes, especially in the absence of fuel scarcity.
The aviation sector is not spared from these challenges, as flight tickets have become exorbitant, exceeding N200,000 for a one-way trip from Abuja or Lagos to any part of the East.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Babatunde Irukera, acknowledges the monitoring of companies against excessive pricing but emphasizes that Nigeria operates in a free market where the government lacks the authority to impose prices.