In a tragic series of events, 65 Nigerians have lost their lives within a week during stampedes at rice distribution centers in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija. Amnesty International has attributed these fatalities to the widespread hunger, escalating unemployment, and deteriorating living standards under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The incidents unfolded as follows:
Ibadan, Oyo State: A children’s Christmas party at Islamic High School in Bashorun turned tragic when a stampede resulted in the deaths of 35 children. The event, organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, former wife of the Ooni of Ife, and promoted by Agidigbo 88.7 FM, ended in chaos as attendees scrambled for distributed items.
Abuja, Federal Capital Territory: At the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, a palliative distribution event led to a stampede, claiming 10 lives, including four children, and injuring several others. The FCT Police Command confirmed the fatalities and noted that the incident occurred as thousands of residents rushed to receive food items.
Okija, Anambra State: A rice-sharing event in the Okija community resulted in a stampede with at least 20 confirmed deaths. Eyewitnesses reported that the casualties included men, women, and pregnant women, highlighting the desperation among the populace.
Amnesty International, in a statement, emphasized the urgency for the Nigerian government to address the root causes of these tragedies. The organization stated, “Millions of people are on the brink of starvation, widespread malnutrition, and deep poverty. President Bola Tinubu’s government must urgently prioritize addressing widespread hunger, higher unemployment, and the rapidly falling standard of living.”
These incidents underscore the dire economic challenges facing Nigeria, where citizens are increasingly resorting to desperate measures to secure basic necessities. The government’s response to these crises will be pivotal in preventing further tragedies and alleviating the suffering of its people.
Peoplesmind
