The hope among Islamic faithful that the price of rams would drop ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, also known as Salah, has been dashed as both sellers and buyers lament low sales and rising costs. Salah is a major Islamic festival centered on the sacrificial slaughter of rams, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's obedience to Allah. The celebration involves morning prayers, sharing meat with family and neighbors, and preparing traditional dishes such as pepper soup, fried meat, and stew. However, for many Nigerians, sharing meat has become increasingly difficult due to the sharp rise in ram prices.
Sellers Blame Fuel Costs and Insecurity
Speaking with The Guardian, the President of the Ram Sellers Association in Gbagada, Alhaji Abubakar Langa, said: “Speaking on the issue does not solve our problem. No customers are coming to buy rams. The price of rams has increased because of the rise in fuel prices. The cost of transporting rams has increased fourfold, while feed has also risen significantly. We have no choice but to increase prices.”
Also speaking, Alhaji Idowu Aminu attributed the price surge to broader economic and security challenges. “Everything has gone up astronomically, so the price of rams has also been affected. Insecurity, including attacks on farmers and the theft of livestock, has reduced supply and contributed to higher prices.” He added that rams now cost between ₦700,000 and ₦800,000, compared to ₦70,000 to ₦100,000 in previous years. “The situation reflects the condition of society. It is not easy anymore, and it is now rare to see multiple households slaughtering rams on the same street. Some people begin saving immediately after one Salah for the next year’s celebration.”
Buyers Share Their Struggles
Another respondent, Babatunde Akorede, described his experience with rising prices. He added that abstaining from slaughtering a ram this year should not be seen as unusual. Alhaji Olohunnishola Lateef also lamented the situation, noting that demand has dropped significantly. “There are no buyers because there is no money. Credit sales are not accepted, otherwise traders would have allowed installments. No ram sells for ₦100,000 anymore. Prices have tripled.” He added: “I could only afford one ram for myself this year, which I bought for ₦350,000. I advise Muslims to live within their means. Government should also come to the markets and see what people are going through.”
Traffic Disruption and Debt Concerns
Meanwhile, ram traders briefly blocked the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway while moving livestock in the early hours of the day. The incident occurred between Fatgbem and Kara Bridge, causing heavy traffic as commuters lamented the gridlock. “This year’s prices are overwhelming. I paid for a ram, but the seller later demanded an additional ₦150,000. I had budgeted ₦300,000, but it increased to ₦400,000. I am considering a refund. Last year, I bought a similar ram for ₦250,000.” “Some people borrow money to buy rams and end up in debt after Salah.”
