Residents of Bauchi metropolis have raised concerns over surge in the prices of food items and other essential commodities across markets in the state.
In interviews with newsmen, some residents noted that the prices of various goods have sharply increased following the recent nationwide protests against bad governance.
According to Habibu Turaki of Igbo Quarters and Idris Munkaila of Kobi Street, many families are now struggling to afford even two meals a day due to the price hikes.
The respondents expressed frustration over the continued high costs of goods and services, despite widespread calls for government intervention to alleviate the burden on low-income earners.
Alhaji Ali Yari of Doya Quarters criticized traders for indiscriminately raising prices without any regulatory oversight.
He observed that the prices of flour and sugar, in particular, have risen by 25% between the first and third days of the nationwide protest.
Commenting on the issue, Professor Dalhat Bala Suleiman, a renowned economist and financial analyst, attributed the price increases to the high demand for goods and services.
Professor Dalhat, who lectures at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, urged the federal government to implement policies that would mitigate the impact of the recent fuel subsidy removal on the economy.
