Many residents of the Federal Capital Territory have lamented the high cost of food items, noting that they are finding it difficult to feed themselves.
The residents also expressed concern over further increases in transportation fares following the rise in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol.
They spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja.
According to them, the increased fuel price has left residents grappling with the harsh realities of rising living costs.
The residents stated that their once manageable budgets have spiralled into a daily struggle, primarily due to soaring food prices and transportation fares.
They appealed to the Federal Government and relevant authorities to take immediate action to address these issues.
A mother of three, Mrs Maryam Abusaid, shared her frustration, stating that she often sits at her kitchen table staring at an empty pot.
“Last year, I could buy a bag of rice for ₦50,000, but now it is more than ₦100,000. How can I feed my children?
“With my husband’s salary barely keeping pace with inflation, I often have to choose between meals and essential household items,” she said.
For civil servant and mother of four, Mrs Ekaite Obot, the situation is no better as she revealed that she has not been able to drive to work or church for the past five months.
“For over five months now, I have not moved my car from the garage because I can no longer afford to fuel or maintain the vehicle.
“The times are really tough for my family. All family expenses have been on me since my husband lost his job as a sales representative.
“I struggle to pay school fees, acquire household items, and feed the family, and with the increasing cost of items, I do not think we can continue to survive on my limited income,” Obot said.
Another civil servant, Mrs Mary Umeh, while lamenting the increased cost of living, said her saving grace was the contribution scheme (adashi) she participates in with some colleagues.
“We have several platforms where we contribute money monthly, and at the end of the year, we use the money to buy various household items.
“It is almost Christmas now, and I do not have any savings, but I am not worried because I know that we will soon use our adashi money to buy some household items.
“I am sure my family will be able to manage the items, and I will just need a little extra money for other things for the Christmas celebration,” she said.
