Traders and buyers at Eke Awka Market, the capital of Anambra State, have blamed the onion scarcity on soaring fuel prices and the nation’s deteriorating road infrastructure.
A reporter on Tuesday highlighted that onions, an essential ingredient for seasoning food, have become increasingly scarce and expensive.
Obigaeli Nwokoye, a small-scale onion trader, noted that just weeks ago, the entire market had no onions available due to poor road conditions. She further explained that suppliers from northern Nigeria faced significant delays as high fuel costs and bad roads disrupted transportation and logistics.
Drivers traveling from Kano face significant obstacles, causing delays in their deliveries to Awka.
“The government needs to address these problems and prioritize food transporters to ensure a consistent supply of food items,” one trader urged.
Mrs. Chioma Okeke, another onion seller, revealed that the cost of a bag of onions has surged to ₦370,000, up from ₦258,000 in November. She explained that prices have risen steadily throughout the year, starting at ₦70,000 to ₦90,000 in January, climbing to ₦110,000 to ₦170,000 by August/October, and then skyrocketing to between ₦250,000 and ₦300,000 from November to December.
Mrs. Doris Beluchukwu, a buyer, voiced her frustration over the rising prices and scarcity of onions.
“Onions that once cost ₦100 or ₦200 are now selling for ₦500 to ₦2,000,” she lamented.
She also called on the government to ensure food regulatory agencies operate efficiently, suggesting that some of the shortages might be artificially created.
“The government must act swiftly to guarantee a steady supply of essential food items in markets nationwide,” Beluchukwu urged.
