Fuel Price Hike: Fish Sellers in Ayetoro Fish Market Lament Low Sales

Ekohotblog reports that the Ayetoro Fish Market, held every five days, was unusually quiet on Friday as fish sellers lamented low patronage.

They explained that the high cost of fuel has made it difficult to purchase fish from the fishermen, severely impacting their businesses.

According to the sellers, the type of fish they used to buy from fishermen for ₦2,500 now costs ₦15,000 due to the rising fuel prices. This has forced them to increase their selling prices, leading to a significant drop in customer patronage.

“We are buying fish at a much higher price now because fuel costs have gone up. We have no choice but to sell at higher prices, but this is driving people away,” said Mrs. Idowu, a fish seller at the market.

Another seller, Mrs. Funmi, added, “Customers come, ask for the price, and leave without buying because it’s too expensive for them. It’s really hard for us, and we are not making enough money.”

Mrs. Toyin, speaking on behalf of the fishermen, also noted that they are struggling with the high fuel prices.

“It’s not our fault. We need fuel to power our boats, and with the current prices, we can only catch as much fish as the fuel allows. This is why we have to sell to the fish sellers at higher prices,” she explained.

The fish sellers are now calling on the government to reduce fuel costs or find alternative solutions.

“If things continue like this, we’re scared we might lose our businesses. The market used to be very busy, but now it’s almost empty. Most people you see around end up going home with their money,” Mrs. Idowu said.

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