With the sharp increase in the cost of food items, rams, and other necessities ahead of this year’s Sallah festivities, Muslims throughout Kaduna and surrounding areas have resolved to fulfill their religious duties regardless of the financial burden.
Many worshippers interviewed on Tuesday expressed gratitude for reaching the 2026 Sallah period, insisting that their spiritual commitments would not be compromised by high prices. Alhaji Murtala Jimoh, Managing Director of Kaduna Motors, explained that animal sacrifice is not mandatory and that believers can worship according to their means.
Hajia Salamatu Moses voiced her dismay at the exorbitant prices, accusing traders of deliberately hoarding goods to exploit Muslims during the holy period. She noted that while costs are always elevated, the festive season has worsened the situation and reminded that everyone will be accountable for their actions.
However, ram vendor Mallam Idrisu Konduga at the Kaduna Central Market attributed the price surge to insecurity, revealing that many people have abandoned ram rearing due to the threat of banditry, and the few remaining breeders demand higher prices.
Mallam Musa Lali, Chairman of the Cattle Rearers Association in Kaduna State, pointed to the scarcity of rams and rising transportation costs as factors driving up prices. He stressed that sellers factor in expenses for feed, healthcare, and other inputs to avoid losses.
An anonymous member of the State House of Assembly acknowledged that price hikes during festive periods are a recurring pattern, as traders stockpile goods to maximize profits during peak demand.