The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, has condemned the alarming state of hunger and desperation in Nigeria, highlighting the devastating impact of poor governance and inadequate response to the rising levels. of poverty.
Reacting to the tragic stampedes that claimed dozens of lives during food distribution events across the country, Rafsanjani described the incidents as heartbreaking reflections of the grave hardships Nigerians are enduring.
“This is a clear indication that Nigerians are facing very difficult times under this administration,” he said. “Unfortunately, the government appears detached from the reality on the ground and has not taken the necessary steps to address a situation that it helped aggravate. “While these tragic incidents have been reported, many more may be happening without anyone realizing it as people are desperately hungry.”
In Abuja, a stampede during a food distribution exercise at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama claimed ten lives, including four children, and left several others injured. The event, intended to provide aid to vulnerable people, turned tragic early Saturday morning when a crowd of more than a thousand people invaded the venue.
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A similar incident occurred in Okija, Anambra State, where a rice distribution exercise organized by philanthropist chief Ernest Obiejesi led to the death of at least 12 people and left more than 30 injured. Witnesses reported that an uncontrolled crowd caused a stampede before the event began, underscoring the desperation among citizens.
In Ibadan, Oyo State, a children's fair organized by Women in Need Governance and Support (WINGS), an initiative of Queen Naomi Silekunola, turned fatal when a crowded entrance caused a stampede. Many children tragically lost their lives, while several others suffered injuries while struggling to access the event.
“These incidents are avoidable, but they highlight the depth of hunger and deprivation in our society,” Rafsanjani added. “The government must urgently take action to address food insecurity, create jobs and alleviate people's suffering.”
He further stated that the escalation of insecurity in the country has exacerbated the crisis. Many farmers are unable to farm due to persistent banditry and violence, leading to reduced agricultural production. The Tinubu administration must prioritize the security of the nation and the revitalization of the agricultural sector. State and local governments must also play an active role in promoting agricultural activities to curb rural-urban migration and reduce unemployment.
CISLAC urged federal and state governments to prioritize policies that address poverty and inequality while ensuring the safety and dignity of citizens during public aid and relief programs. The organization also called for better planning and coordination during these types of events to prevent further loss of life.
Rafsanjani noted that these tragic incidents serve as a stark reminder of the growing desperation among Nigerians and the urgent need for effective and compassionate governance to address the nation's challenges.