A Port Harcourt-based businessman, Mr. Kelechi Ukah, has lamented the negative impact of persistent rainfall on commercial activities in the Rivers State capital, describing it as a major contributor to the worsening economic hardship and insecurity in the country.
Speaking during an interview with our reporter at his Mile One Diobu office, Ukah noted that the incessant downpour has made it difficult for many residents to go about their daily businesses or access their farmlands, thereby aggravating poverty and hunger.
According to him, the heavy rains have not only disrupted commercial activities but also significantly reduced customer turnout, leading to low sales and financial losses for many business owners.
“Under such weather conditions, business becomes stagnant. Even those who manage to come out barely make sales because the rain discourages patronage,” Ukah said.
He further revealed that due to the economic strain, many individuals are now seeking alternative sources of income. “Some workers have converted their private cars to taxis just to make ends meet and support their families,” he added.
Ukah called on the Federal Government to urgently address the rising hardship in the country, noting that the situation has led to an increase in crime, drug abuse among youths, and high mortality rates due to hunger and lack of access to healthcare.
He cautioned the government against focusing solely on preparations for the 2027 general elections while citizens are “going through hell,” urging the formulation of policies that will alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
In a related development, another resident, Mr. Joseph Eden, also decried the effect of the unrelenting rainfall on the economy, stating that although the prices of some perishable food items have slightly dropped, many Nigerians still cannot afford them due to lack of income.
“The sellers are forced to reduce prices to avoid losses from spoilage, but unfortunately, people don’t even have money to buy,” Eden explained.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of the National Assembly to enact meaningful policies aimed at tackling hunger and poverty, rather than spending resources on irrelevant projects.
“It’s painful to watch your children suffer or die from hunger and lack of medical care while government wastes funds on projects that do not impact the lives of ordinary citizens,” Eden concluded.
