The Iyalaje General of Lagos, Chief (Mrs.) Toyin Afolabi, has appealed to market women and men, especially those who trade in foodstuff and essential services at various markets and stores, not to exploit residents by hiking the price of foodstuff during this period.
Afolabi, in a press release, revealed that there has been a hike in the price of foods all over the state, especially major food markets. “Residents have been lamenting the soaring prices of foodstuffs following the lockdown announced by the government to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Iyalaje said: “We need to appeal to our traders to show residents some understanding. We are in trying times, people are struggling to survive, so we should not compound their problems, we should, therefore, be our brothers’ keeper by not increasing the price of foodstuff.
“Sadly, some have even increased the price of pure water; something as basic as that, this is bad, and should not be encouraged. We also hear they have increased the price of garri; this will not affect the rich and mighty in the society, it is vulnerable and less privileged that will be affected.
“I, therefore, plead with my people; the market women and the traders to consider the plight of the less privileged, who are mostly hit by this lockdown and not increase the price of foodstuff. We would surely make our profits when this season is over.”
While commenting on the palliative by the state government, she praised the governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for handling the challenge posed by the scourge in the state and for providing the less privileged with palliative measure, to cushion the effect of the pandemic.
“This is a laudable initiative that should be commended, we are also willing to be part of this initiative in our respective localities, we would not leave the government alone to handle the fall-out, and we would also partner in one way or the way. Although we have been reaching out to them, we would not relent.”
She also commended the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi and his team for their prompt interventions since the scourge began.
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