Yuletide activities were of a mixed nature in Abuja on Wednesday as foodstuff prices still remained high in the markets, while some recreation centres experienced high patronage.

Correspondents of the News Agency of Nigeria, who went round Abuja metropolis on Boxing Day, reported that some foodstuff prices were extremely high, while some recreation centres were filled up.

At the Utako market, a small basket of onions which sold for N1,400 some weeks earlier now sells for N1,800, while a basket of pepper which sold for N500 is now N850.

At the Wuse market, Isa Ado, a trader, said a basket of Irish potatoes which was sold at N700 was selling at N1,100.

Yaqoob Adamu, a trader at the Garki Market, attributed the hike in prices of food items to transportation problems, especially as most suppliers had travelled out of town for the Christmas

A consumer, Mrs Chinyere Akabueze, appealed to the Federal Government, to re-introduce the price control system, in order to forestall unnecessary price increase of commodities.

"I just came to see if I can get some tomatoes and pepper. But I could not buy them during the week because they were expensive.

"Now as you can see for yourself, the price has still not come down," she said.

The fuel scarcity which reappeared in the Abuja metropolis has however not made it difficult for people to visit some relaxation spots.

At the Wonderland Amusement Park, the human and vehicular traffic was very enormous.

Some parents who were with their children were seen looking for parking spaces for their cars outside the facility.

This was because every available space inside and outside the park had been taken up.

Mr Moses Sonayan, one of the parents, said since Boxing Day was meant for recreation and relaxation, the park was the best place to visit this yuletide.

"I am waiting here to see anyone who will move his or her car, so I can park mine. I am ready to wait till I get a space, because things are really tight here," he said.

A visit to the Silverbird Gallery also revealed that many Abuja residents trooped out to take advantage of the holidays.

The venue was jam-packed, with both the young and old involved in many activities.

"Many people are here to enjoy themselves as expected, because of the holidays, and it is really hectic," Tomisin Ifeanyi stated.