Sokoto Families Turn to Shared Sacrifices as Eid-el-Kabir Livestock Prices Soar

By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi

With less than a few days to Eid-el Kabir, thousands of Muslim families across Sokoto State are grappling with unprecedented livestock prices, forcing many households to abandon plans to purchase rams individually and instead pool resources to buy cows or camels for the annual sacrifice.

Across major livestock markets in the state, traders and buyers describe a difficult season marked by soaring animal prices, weak purchasing power and declining patronage, as economic hardship continues to erode household incomes.

A survey conducted by GaskiyaCast in major livestock markets in Bodinga and Achida revealed hundreds of rams on display but relatively few buyers. Commercial activities remained sluggish as many residents delayed purchases in anticipation of possible price reductions before the festival.

Market checks showed that small-sized rams currently sell for between N100,000 and N200,000, while medium-sized animals attract prices ranging from N300,000 to N500,000. Larger breeds command between N600,000 and N1 million, placing them beyond the reach of many average-income earners.

Prospective buyer, Mallam Sulaimanu Dingyadi, said he was postponing his purchase in the hope that prices would fall closer to Eid.

“I am waiting to see whether sellers will reduce their prices as the festival approaches. The current prices are simply too high for many families” he said.

Another resident, Umar Lawal, said growing family obligations had made it increasingly difficult to afford a ram this year.

“School expenses, household needs and preparations for Sallah have stretched many families beyond their limits” he lamented.

Livestock dealer Alhaji Sale Ubale attributed the sharp increase in prices to rising transportation costs, expensive animal feed and persistent security challenges affecting the movement of livestock from parts of northern Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

“The cost of bringing animals to the market has increased significantly. Feeding costs are also higher, while insecurity along some routes has made transportation more difficult and expensive,” he explained.

In a bid to attract customers, traders have expanded beyond traditional livestock markets by establishing temporary sales points in residential neighbourhoods across Sokoto metropolis.

Some sellers now move from street to street with their animals, while others display livestock in front of homes, shops and along major roads in search of buyers. However, despite these efforts, patronage remains low as many residents struggle to cope with the rising cost of living.

For many households, the situation has led to a growing preference for collective sacrifices, where groups of relatives, friends or neighbours contribute funds to purchase a cow or camel, enabling them to fulfil the religious obligation at a lower individual cost.

As Eid-el Kabir draws nearer, traders remain hopeful that last-minute buyers will boost sales, while residents continue to weigh their options amid mounting economic pressures.