The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampedes that occurred in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja, leading to the deaths of over 70 people and leaving many others injured.
The incidents, which happened during the distribution of empowerment palliatives and giveaways to mark the yuletide season, claimed the lives of children, nursing mothers, women, and the elderly.
In a statement released on Sunday, December 22, 2024, the Minority Leader, Hon. O.K. Chinda, described the tragedies as “heartbreaking and dehumanizing,” blaming the incidents on the harsh economic realities that have driven many Nigerians into poverty and hunger.
“These victims paid the ultimate price in their search for sustenance. It is pathetic and heartrending,” Chinda stated.
The Caucus expressed concern over the growing trend of stampedes at charity events, attributing it to the biting economic situation that forces vulnerable citizens to scramble for relief items.
Calling for urgent action, the Minority Caucus urged the Federal Government and intervention agencies to expand and improve empowerment programs to ensure that palliatives reach those in dire need. It also called for enhanced crowd management, proper security arrangements, and the provision of medical services at distribution venues.
“As we mourn with the families of the victims and empathize with those injured, we reiterate the need for the Federal and State Governments to take immediate, realistic actions to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future,” the statement read.
The Caucus also emphasized that the tragedies have generated negative global attention, underscoring the need for government intervention to address hunger and poverty across the country.
The stampedes, which occurred within days of each other, have sparked widespread criticism of the country’s worsening economic conditions and the inadequacy of existing relief measures.
