Some residents of Lagos State expressed their concerns over what they described as “economic hardship” affecting this year’s Christmas celebration. In interviews with reporters, residents highlighted issues such as increased costs of groceries and transportation, as well as the current scarcity of cash in the state.
A widow, Mrs R. Sulaiman, lamented the high cost of foodstuff, citing economic challenges that have made it difficult for her to adequately cater to her children during the Christmas season. Another resident, Clement Osakwe, shared his disappointment in being unable to afford transportation costs to his hometown in Enugu, despite the 50% rebate on transportation costs reportedly offered by the government.
Osakwe mentioned, “We heard that the Federal Government has offered a 50% discount on the cost of transportation of some transport companies, but the truth is that many cannot still afford the remaining 50%. I can’t afford it for myself and my family. Times are hard.”
A resident in the Ketu area, identified as Ademola, expressed frustration with the scarcity of cash and criticized banks for exacerbating the hardship during the festive season. He questioned the reasons behind the cash shortage, urging the government to address the issue promptly and suggesting that it could be an artificial scarcity caused by individuals with malicious intent.
The sentiments of these residents reflect broader concerns about the economic challenges facing many Nigerians, impacting their ability to enjoy the festive season. of Christmas
