Nigeria, Dec. 7 -- The prices of food items have increased at over 100 per cent rate in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, about three weeks before Christmas, the highest since the beginning of the year

This is despite the claim of emphasis on Agriculture by the Akwa Ibom State Government.

A PREMIUM TIMES survey of shops and markets in the state capital within the period showed that the price of palm oil, crayfish, carrot, eggs, tomatoes are worst affected by the increase.

For instance, the price of crayfish, a major ingredient in soup making, has almost tripled within the last three months. A four-litre container of crayfish which was sold for N2, 500 in September is now sold for N6, 000, an increase of 140 per cent. The price is higher compared t...