In Imo State, the prices of two staple foods, garri and bread, soar to unprecedented heights, with a staggering increase of 200% in costs in recent months.
Garri, once hailed as the quintessential “poor man’s food,” has witnessed a dramatic surge in price within three-months
The root cause behind this escalation in price remains shrouded in mystery, with speculations rife regarding the potential impact of dwindling cassava production.
Similarly, the cost of bread has also spiraled beyond affordability, skyrocketing by over 200% in just two months in the State.
Residents of the State, already grappling with the harsh realities of economic hardship across the country, now find themselves further burdened by exorbitant prices, rendering these basic necessities unattainable for the average Imo citizen.
A comprehensive survey conducted by INNONEWS across some major markets in the state capital, Owerri, reveals that the average price of a painter of yellow garri has surged from N1,400 in December 2023 to N2,400 in March 2024.
Nigeria, particularly the South East, stands as the world’s largest producer and consumer of cassava, with garri occupying a revered status as a dietary mainstay in most households.
However, the recent inflationary pressures have eroded the commodity’s reputation as an affordable sustenance, leaving countless Imo residents struggling to make ends meet.
Bread, traditionally regarded as “poor man’s food,” is not so affordable with prices soaring to unprecedented heights.
Medium-sized loaves now command prices ranging from N1,200 to N1,500, a far cry from the days when a loaf could be procured for a mere N200 and N500.
Basic necessities such as garri and bread once taken for granted have become luxuries beyond reach of the average Imolite.
A resident of the State, who gave his name as Pius, said the prices of both garri and bread, have gone beyond the so called poor man.
“Their prices increase everyday and there is no remedy or solution in sight. This is supposed to be the affordable items, but it is not so.
“We pray for Nigeria, and believe that one day, our situation will change” he said.
