Muslims in Kaduna Vow to Celebrate Sallah Despite Rising Costs

Following the rising cost of foodstuffs, rams, and other essential items ahead of the Sallah celebration, Muslim faithful across Kaduna and its environs have vowed that nothing would stop them from observing their religious obligations on May 26, 2026.

A cross-section of Muslims interviewed in Kaduna on Tuesday expressed gratitude to God for witnessing the 2026 Sallah celebration, insisting that “with or without animal sacrifice,” they would fulfil their spiritual obligations.

According to Alhaji Murtala Jimoh, Managing Director of Kaduna Motors, Islam does not make animal sacrifice compulsory for those who cannot afford it.

“It is necessary to sacrifice an animal, especially a ram, but where you cannot afford to buy one, there is no punishment for it. You worship God with all your heart and perform your spiritual obligation according to your means,” he said.

Also speaking, Hajia Salamatu Moses expressed concern over the soaring prices of foodstuffs and rams, accusing traders of deliberately waiting until the Sallah period to exploit Muslim faithful.

“I wonder why these people waited patiently until this period in order to extort money from Muslims,” she said.

She noted that although prices of essential commodities had remained high for some time, the festive period had further worsened the situation.

According to her, the holy season should encourage fairness and accountability among traders.

However, a ram seller at the Kaduna Central Market, Mallam Idrisu Konduga, attributed the increase in ram prices to insecurity in parts of the country.

According to him, many people are no longer interested in rearing livestock because of the threat posed by bandits who attack communities and rustle animals.

He added that the few livestock rearers still in business are forced to sell at higher prices to cover their losses and risks.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Cattle Rearers Association, Mallam Musa Lali, blamed the high cost of rams on scarcity and rising transportation expenses.

“No businessman wants to sell at a loss. Therefore, most of us who sell these animals add our expenses, including feeding the animals and providing proper healthcare facilities, among others. These will surely increase the selling price,” he said.

A member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, who spoke anonymously, said the hike in prices during festive periods was not new, noting that traders often stockpile goods in anticipation of increased demand and profits during celebrations.