…Price Hikes and Disputes Stir Tensions in Calabar over “Waterleaf War”
Calabar the Cross River state capital metropolis is witnessing an unusual crisis as waterleaf, a once-abundant vegetable and staple in many Nigerian homes, becomes the center of a heated dispute involving farmers, market unions, and enforcers. Dubbed the “Waterleaf War” by locals, the situation has led to price hikes, black-market activities, and unrest within farming and trading communities in the state capital metropolis NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
At the heart of the matter is the farmland at the new airport field in Calabar South, where farmers are locked in disputes over ownership of plots. The conflict has disrupted the steady supply of waterleaf to local markets, further exacerbating tensions among sellers and consumers.
Adding to the turmoil, the Market Union has issued directives to sellers, asking them to ration sales to artificially inflate prices. The union aims to raise the price of a bunch of waterleaf from 100 to 200 naira. However, market enforcers have taken it a step further, insisting that bundles should be sold at a staggering 50,000 naira, effectively pushing waterleaf into the black market.
The price-fixing measures have left many Calabar residents frustrated, particularly those who rely on waterleaf as an affordable and nutritious vegetable. Concerns have also been raised about the lack of transparency in determining these prices. “Don’t they factor in costs like clearing, planting, and labor before fixing prices?” a concerned resident questioned.
While the Market Union’s actions aim to protect farmers and traders, the sudden spike in prices has placed a burden on ordinary citizens. “Waterleaf, which floods the market during its season, has now become a goldmine,” remarked a community observer.
Community leaders and stakeholders like food vendors have urged farmers, market unions, and enforcers to resolve their disputes amicably. The ongoing conflicts not only threaten the livelihoods of farmers and traders but also undermine the accessibility of waterleaf, a vital component of the region’s culinary culture.
A netizen has expressed hope for a peaceful resolution: “We pray they sheath their swords and settle amicably. Waterleaf has always been a blessing, not a source of contention.”
