06 01, 2023

Consumers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expressing their dissatisfaction with the sharp increase in the price of tomatoes, causing them to consider alternative options such as using Banga (palm fruit) instead. A market survey conducted by THE WHISTLER revealed that the cost of tomatoes has doubled compared to the prices in January. A big basket of fresh tomatoes in the Dei-Dei market is now sold for around N43,000 to N45,000, while a small plastic basket is priced between N5,000 and N1,500. Frustrated consumers expressed their concerns, stating that they might have to switch to other alternatives due to the high cost. Some consumers shared their experiences of not being able to afford tomatoes anymore. They mentioned the challenges of the increasing cost of living and the difficulties of providing for their families. Traders explained that factors such as pest infestation, unfavorable weather conditions, and inadequate irrigation farming have severely affected tomato supply, resulting in empty shelves and limited availability of half-ripe tomatoes.