Amidst rising inflation, staple food prices have surged dramatically, as reported by the Peoples Gazette.

The report underscores the adverse impact of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies since taking office on May 29, 2023. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate spiked to 29.90% in January 2024.

Market surveys conducted by the Peoples Gazette have revealed alarming price hikes: a pack of Spaghetti, previously priced at N80, now costs N950; a carton of Titus fish, once valued at N40,000, now sells for N76,000; a medium-sized Blue Band butter, formerly N500, is now priced at N1,400. Additionally, the cost of a 50kg bag of rice has soared to N77,000 from N35,000, and a 100kg bag of dry white maize, previously N18,000, now commands N58,000. Furthermore, the price of a single packaged Titus sardine has surged from N350 to N1,020.

In response to growing discontent, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has urged Nigerians to refrain from making provocative statements against the Tinubu-led administration, warning that such comments could incite violence.

Prominent figures like the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, have recently lamented Nigeria’s hardship and called for government intervention to assist the vulnerable. Similarly, the Nigerian Bar Association has decried insecurity and the parlous state of the economy, urging the government to declare a state of emergency.

However, in a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle assured the public that President Tinubu is actively addressing the nation’s challenges. He emphasized Tinubu’s commitment to reshaping the economy and enhancing security through various policies. Matawalle stressed the importance of unity, urging Nigerians to prioritize peace and national cohesion in their actions and words. He cautioned against unwarranted criticisms of the government, noting that they could have serious consequences.