The Jigawa chapter of the All Farmers Association (AFAN) has expressed fears that food prices may rise if fuel scarcity continues.

Its chairman, Maiunguwa Jaga, in an interview with journalists on Monday in Dutse, said the government must take proactive measures to address the issue.

“If the price of the fuel decreases, that would be fine. However, we will wait for the next three weeks to see the government’s effort about the development,” said Mr Jaga. “After that time, then we make our stand known through the media. This is because if the farmers are not able to farm, then there will be a scarcity and high cost of food.”

He explained that the nationwide ongoing fuel scarcity would likely affect dry season farming.

He added that this was because most of the dry season farmers depended on pumping machines to irrigate their farms.

“I’ve been receiving calls since yesterday (Sunday) from farmers who have already planted but expressing fears that they cannot afford to buy fuel for their water pumps,” he pointed out. “For those that use gas, it now costs between N500 and N600 per litre, while those who use petrol now pay about N255 per litre. This means that we will be running at a loss and cannot afford it.”

(NAN)