Oyintiloye: Prices of food items unbearable for many Nigerians

Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun state, says the soaring prices of food items is becoming worrisome and unbearable for millions of Nigerians.

In an interview with journalists on Saturday, Oyintiloye said the hike in food prices is making it difficult for many Nigerians to afford decent meals.

Oyintiloye added that there is an urgent need for government at all levels to intervene.

He said despite the food waiver policy by the federal government, and the intervention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the prices of food items are still prohibitive.

“The exchange rate fluctuations further exacerbate this issue, particularly affecting the prices of imported food items. The situation on the prices of food is becoming worrisome and extremely unbearable for the masses,” he said.

“Many households can no longer afford nutritional meals, while many are begging for survival. This is pathetic and no longer bearable for the masses.

“I urge governors and the federal government to intensify efforts and to stop further increase in the cost of food items. The situation may worsen, if factors leading to the increase are left unattended to.”

He urged the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to continue to protect the interests of consumers.

“The federal government and states should set up food markets for people to buy basic food items at subsidized rates to cushion the challenge, at least for this festive season,” he said.