APC Chieftain Raises Alarm Over Rising Food Prices, Calls for Government Intervention

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has expressed concern over the rising cost of food in Nigeria, describing it as worrisome and unbearable for the masses.

Oyintiloye, a former member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, spoke with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, highlighting the severe impact of escalating food prices on Nigerians.

He noted that the significant increase in the cost of foodstuffs has made it increasingly difficult for many citizens to afford nutritious meals.

“The rise in food prices is mostly caused by insecurity, high transportation costs, climate change, and the instability of the naira exchange rate,” he said.

According to Oyintiloye, the skyrocketing prices have severely diminished the purchasing power of citizens, leading to widespread poverty, uncertainty, and a higher cost of living. He urged governments at all levels to urgently implement tangible programmes to combat hunger and provide relief to the masses.

Citing a recent survey by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Oyintiloye revealed that food prices have risen by over 100 percent.

He referenced findings from the 2023/24 General Household Survey-Panel (GHS-Panel), launched on November 25, 2024, in Abuja, which showed that “65.8 percent of households were unable to eat healthy, nutritious, or preferred foods due to low income.”

While acknowledging efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address the issue, including food waiver policies and Central Bank interventions, Oyintiloye noted that many Nigerians are still struggling to afford three square meals.

“The exchange rate fluctuations further exacerbate this issue, particularly affecting the prices of imported food items,” he said.

He described the situation as “pathetic and no longer bearable,” warning that it may worsen if the underlying factors contributing to the hike are not addressed.

“I urge governors and the Federal Government to intensify efforts to stop further increases in the cost of food items.

The situation is becoming extremely unbearable for the masses,” Oyintiloye added.