As transport fares rise, driven by petrol price hike, some second-hand clothing traders in Dutse, Jigawa have expressed concern over low patronage.
Thrift wears (also called Okrika) are pre-owned or second-hand garments imported into Nigeria from Europe, America, and Asia. They remain popular due to their durability, affordability, and unique styles, and are mainly found in markets, roadside outlets, boutiques, and online platforms. The trade provides a means of livelihood to many Nigerians in view of its lucrative nature.
However, a cross-section of the public on Thursday June 25 in Dutse expressed concern about the effect of the economy on the trade.
Mr Danladi Musa, a retailer, said that he now spent much in sourcing second-hand clothes due to rising transport costs. He said the trend had forced them to push prices up.
Another trader, Mr Sani Balarabe, said most of the clothes were sourced from Kano, adding that the high cost of transportation contributed significantly to the surge in prices. He lamented the resulting declining patronage.
Mrs Asma’u Abdulkadir, a customer, said she had high preferences for second-hand clothes in spite of the exorbitant prices. According to her, because her children who are still young easily wear out or damage their clothes, she combines thrift clothes with new ones to reduce expenses.
On his part, Mohammed Auwal , a resident, said many people now prioritised food and other essentials over clothing purchases due to the economic crunch. He, however, said many low-income families still depended on second-hand clothing because brand new clothes were beyond their reach.
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