The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has cautioned traders and market operators against hoarding and artificial inflation of staple food prices during Ramadan and Lent.
In a statement issued by the agency’s Director of Communication and Media, Bala Musa, the DG expressed concern over reports that some marketers were deliberately withholding essential commodities to create artificial scarcity and drive up prices.
Issa-Onilu described the practice as economically disruptive and morally indefensible, especially during a sacred season that promotes compassion, sacrifice, and generosity.
He noted that food hoarding undermines economic stability, fuels inflation, and worsens hardship for families already facing difficult conditions.
The NOA boss urged trade associations and market unions to enforce internal discipline and collaborate with regulatory authorities to prevent exploitative practices.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to nationwide sensitisation campaigns, calling on marketers to uphold integrity and social responsibility during the fasting period.