The soaring prices of rams in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have raised concerns among residents of Dei-Dei and Kubwa communities ahead of the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) celebrations.
Interviews with our correspondence revealed that the sharp increase in livestock costs is making it difficult for many Muslim families to fulfill the religious obligation of sacrificing rams during the festival.
A visit to major livestock markets in Dei-Dei and Kubwa showed that the cost of medium-sized rams now ranges from N500,000 to N700,000, depending on size and breed. Last year, similar animals were sold for under N400,000.
According to livestock dealer Mohammed Saminu, rising transportation costs, insecurity in northern states, and higher prices for animal feed are driving the surge. He noted that transporting animals from Jigawa, Kano, Sokoto, Katsina, and Plateau has become significantly more expensive due to fuel price hikes.
Many residents, including Mrs Zainab Danjuma of Kubwa, expressed concern over affordability. “We may have to pool resources with relatives or settle for smaller rams. With rising food prices, school fees, and transportation costs, buying a ram this year is becoming very challenging, she said.
Trader Sani Yahaya added that insecurity along key highways has discouraged livestock dealers from bringing large numbers of animals to the markets, further limiting supply and pushing prices higher.
Muhammed Ahmed, another resident, called on the government to address rising transportation costs and security concerns. He also encouraged Muslims to celebrate within their means, emphasizing that the sincerity of worship is more important than the size or price of the ram.
Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a major Islamic celebration observed by Muslims worldwide, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
