Yam sellers in Kwara have lamented declining patronage over the past three months, attributing the trend to the rising cost of the commodity.
A cross-section of traders, who spoke with journalists in Ilorin on Saturday, said many customers now consider yams unaffordable and have turned to cheaper alternatives.
One of the traders at Ganmo Market, Tawal Saka, said sales had dropped significantly as customers were no longer buying yams as they used to.
According to her, many customers complain about the high cost of yams and often leave without making any purchases.
“Many people walk past our stalls without even asking for prices. The situation is worrisome because sales have reduced drastically,” she said.
Another trader at the market, Taofikat Onisu, said low patronage had adversely affected the business, with some yams remaining unsold for long periods and eventually spoiling.
Ms Onisu said some regular customers had stopped patronising the market because of the high prices.
“We sometimes call our customers to find out why they are no longer buying from us, and most of them complain that yams have become too expensive,” she said.
Also, Iyabo Ige, a trader at Ipata Market, said many customers who previously bought yams in large quantities had stopped coming.
“We had customers who would fill the boots of their vehicles with yams, but many of them have not returned in recent months.
“I am beginning to wonder whether people are reducing their consumption of yams because of the high prices,” Ms Ige said.
Another trader, popularly known as Iya Ibeji, said many customers deliberately avoid the yam section of the market because they consider the commodity too expensive.
She, however, appealed to consumers to continue patronising yam sellers, noting that the high prices were beyond the traders’ control.
According to her, insecurity in farming communities has contributed significantly to the rising cost of yams.
“Banditry and kidnapping have discouraged many farmers and traders from travelling to farms to purchase produce directly.
“Yam is available on farms, but many people are afraid to go there because of security concerns.
“We appeal to the government to address the insecurity situation so that business activities can improve,” she said.
A consumer, Funmilayo Aina, said she had drastically reduced her yam purchases because of rising prices.
“Three small tubers of yams can cost as much as N8,000 these days. It has become difficult for many families to afford,” Ms Aina said.
(NAN)
