Traders in Katsina are reporting significant losses and reduced customer traffic, especially since the onset of recent protests. Many petty traders expressed their concerns to PUNCH Metro on Sunday, highlighting how the ongoing demonstrations have impacted their businesses.

A perfume and cap vendor at Jikan Hajiya Plaza described the situation, saying, “Customers have stopped buying due to the high prices of goods. I invested all my savings into my stock, and now I’m struggling to manage my capital.”

Similarly, Adams, a long-time fruit vendor at Katsina Hajj Camp Roundabout, shared his frustrations. “After over a decade in this business, I’ve never seen such a drop in sales. Since the protests began, I’ve faced a severe decline in customer numbers. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to support my family, and I urge the Federal Government to provide soft loans or grants to help us cope with inflation and economic difficulties.”