Muslims in Ibadan, Oyo State, have expressed frustration over the rising cost of rams ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, describing the situation as increasingly burdensome for both buyers and sellers.

Buyers and traders who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday said the price surge had made preparations for Sallah difficult amid prevailing economic challenges.

A ram seller, Abdullah Saleh, said sales were slower than expected despite high demand, noting that many potential buyers were salary earners yet to receive their wages.

Another trader, Salisu Abass, attributed the rising prices to increased transportation costs from northern Nigeria, driven largely by higher fuel prices.

He explained that the cost of transporting a trailer load of rams from Borno State to Oyo has jumped significantly, with the burden ultimately reflected in retail prices.

Some buyers lamented that their purchasing power had weakened due to the current economic situation, making it difficult to afford rams for the festive period.

One anonymous buyer said many families were struggling financially, with some purchasing rams only to fulfil family or cultural expectations despite economic strain.

Another buyer, AbdulKarim Oyedele, said he needed more funds than expected to purchase even a modest-sized ram.

An Islamic scholar, Afeez Adegoke, advised Muslims to consider rearing animals locally to reduce dependence on seasonal price hikes and improve availability.

Meanwhile, market surveys across major Ibadan ram markets showed significant price increases, with small rams now selling between ₦200,000 and ₦250,000, up from ₦70,000–₦80,000 in 2025.

Middle-sized rams now go for ₦300,000–₦400,000, while larger ones range between ₦500,000 and ₦900,000.

The report also noted fluctuations in food prices, with rice, tomatoes, and other staples showing mixed trends ahead of the festive season.