Christmas Shopping Frenzy Drives Livestock Prices to New Highs in Ondo

A wave of last-minute Christmas shopping sent livestock prices climbing sharply across parts of Ondo State on Thursday, leaving many households struggling to keep traditional festive meals within reach. In Ikare-Akoko and Akungba-Akoko, bustling markets reflected the pressure of rising demand as residents hurried to prepare for the celebrations.

Source: westernpost

At Osele Market in Ikare and the main market in Akungba, prices told a stark story. A full-grown chicken sold for as much as ₦35,000, while mature goats went for between ₦100,000 and ₦120,000, depending on size and availability. The surge forced several families to rethink their plans, with beef emerging as a more affordable option for many this season.

Traders blamed the sharp increase on a mix of policy and economic pressures. Goat sellers pointed to restrictions on goat domestication, which they said had reduced supply at a time when demand traditionally peaks. Poultry dealers, on the other hand, cited the soaring cost of feed and other production expenses, warning that these overheads continue to push prices higher.

Despite the steep costs, buyers still thronged the markets. Livestock trader Bukola Aduloju noted that festive periods usually come with heavy patronage, explaining that many shoppers even show up on Christmas Day itself after securing money late. She appealed to the government to address the broader issue of rising living costs, saying the burden on ordinary families is becoming unbearable.

The situation has also drawn reactions from religious leaders. Reverend Emmanuel Olawole of St Paul’s Anglican Church in Ikare-Akoko urged residents to see the moment as a call for moderation and deeper reflection. He reminded families that Christmas should center on love, peace, and sharing rather than extravagant spending, while appealing to those with means and relevant authorities to support households facing hardship.

According to him, the true spirit of the season is diminished when economic strain prevents families from celebrating at all, a concern echoed quietly across Ondo’s crowded markets as Christmas approached.