Ewi-in-Council Disbands Dubious Market Associations, Slashes Food Prices in Ekiti

Published on August 12, 2024

The Ewi-in-Council, a revered traditional institution in Ekiti State, has taken decisive steps to alleviate the burden of rising food prices for residents. During a meeting held in Ado-Ekiti, the council addressed the issue of inflated prices and the role of certain market associations.

 The Ewi-in-Council canceled various market associations that were responsible for charging exorbitant prices for essential goods. These associations had been dictating prices to farmers, leading to unfair costs for consumers. To ensure affordability, the council set maximum prices for specific food items:  Vegetables: Not to be sold for more than fifty-naira, Pepper: Limited to one hundred naira, Garri (cassava flakes): Capped at seven hundred naira, Meat (per kilogram): Reduced to four thousand five hundred naira.

The Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, emphasized that chiefs would closely monitor compliance with these directives in marketplaces. Defaulters would face sanctions.

    A bustling market in Ekiti State.

The move by the Ewi-in-Council aims to make life more bearable for Ekiti residents, especially those struggling with the impact of inflation. By curbing price manipulation and ensuring fair costs, the traditional institution seeks to promote economic stability and well-being.