By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – THE Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Saturday, asserted that worsening hunger responsible for recurring stampedes and deaths in parts of the country including the nation’s capital, Abuja.

The Executive Director, CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Rafsanjani, expressed deep pain over the loss of lives, especially children in the Ibadan, Anambra and Abuja stampedes during food distribution events by well-spirited Nigerians, but unfortunately turned out to be deathtraps to Nigerians who want to survive that day.

Rafsanjani said the alarming state of hunger and desperation in Nigeria are unacceptable, and traceable to the devastating impact of poor governance and inadequate response to rising poverty levels amongst Nigerians, therefore, he described the incidents as heartbreaking reflections of the severe and harrowing hardship Nigerians are enduring on daily basis.

He also pointed out that the 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 challenges facing the nation.

He said: “This is a clear indication that Nigerians are facing very difficult times under this administration.

“Unfortunately, the government appears detached from the realities on the ground and has failed to take the necessary steps to address a situation they helped to escalate. While these tragic incidents have been reported, many more may be occurring unnoticed as people are desperately hungry.”

“Abuja’s stampede occurred early hours of Saturday morning during a food distribution exercise at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama claiming 10 lives, including four children, while leaving several others injured, with the intention to provide relief to vulnerable individuals, as it turned tragic due to a crowd of over a thousand people who overwhelmed the venue and distributors.

“A similar incident occurred in Okija, Anambra State, where a rice distribution exercise organized by philanthropist Chief Ernest Obiejesi resulted in the death of at least 12 people and left over 30 others injured. Witnesses reported that an uncontrolled crowd caused a stampede before the event could commence, underscoring the desperation among citizens.

“Also, in Ibadan, Oyo State, a children’s funfair hosted by Women in Need of Governance and Support (WINGS), an initiative of Queen Naomi Silekunola, turned fatal when an overcrowded entrance led to a stampede. Many children tragically lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries as they struggled to gain access to the event.

“These incidents are avoidable but highlight the depth of hunger and deprivation in our society.

“The government must urgently adopt measures to address food insecurity, create jobs, and alleviate the suffering of the people.”

He further stated that the escalating insecurity in the country has exacerbated this crisis. Many farmers are unable to cultivate crops due to persistent banditry and violence, leading to reduced agricultural production.

“The Tinubu administration must prioritize securing the nation and revitalizing the agricultural sector. State and local governments must also play an active role in encouraging agricultural activities to curb rural-urban migration and reduce unemployment.

“CISLAC urges the federal and state governments to prioritize policies that tackle poverty and inequality while ensuring the safety and dignity of citizens during public aid and relief programmes.

“Therefore, we are also calling for improved planning and coordination during such events to prevent further loss of lives”, he added.