Lagos State residents express disappointment over the prices of food items at the newly launched “Ounje Eko” food markets, initiated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to offer discounted prices on essential foods.
Governor Sanwo-Olu had announced the establishment of these markets to operate exclusively on Sundays across 57 locations in the state, aiming to ease the burden of high living costs.
Despite promises of a 25% discount on staple food items like rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper, residents observe that the prices remain high compared to the usual market rates.
Videos shared by a civic group on TikTok reveal residents expressing their disappointment, noting that the prices of rice and beans, for instance, have not seen the promised reduction.
One resident highlighted the disparity, stating that while a certain quantity of rice or beans is sold at a lower price in regular markets, the same quantity is priced higher in the subsidized markets.
Another resident regretted her decision to patronize the discounted market, lamenting that the prices were higher than those in regular markets. She noted that beans, for example, was sold at N6,200 in the subsidized market, while it typically costs around N5,000 in regular markets.
An elderly woman echoed similar sentiments, expressing her dismay at the high prices, which prevented her from purchasing additional items she had intended to buy.
Residents also complained about the slow pace of service and the limited availability of certain food items, leading to frustration and inconvenience.
Overall, the residents urge Governor Sanwo-Olu to fulfill his promise of reducing food prices by 25% and address the discrepancies observed in the subsidized markets.
