In response to a tragic stampede that unfolded at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Old Zonal Headquarters in Yaba, Lagos, the NCS has temporarily suspended the direct distribution of confiscated edible items.
The initiative, aimed at easing economic difficulties for Nigerians, faced a devastating setback on Friday, 23 February 2024, during the first day of distribution.
The Federal Government had directed the NCS to distribute seized food items to alleviate widespread hardship. Ten distribution centres were established, allowing Nigerians to redeem food items using their National Identification Number (NIN), starting with the Yaba distribution point.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer for the Comptroller General, issued a statement providing insights into the unfortunate incident.
According to Maiwada, the distribution process at the NCS Old Zonal Headquarters in Yaba proceeded smoothly initially, with cooperation from the large crowd. The exercise, which began at 8 AM and continued until 5 PM, prioritized vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and pregnant women.
However, tragedy struck when the food supply ran out, and an announcement was made about the continuation of the exercise the next day. The crowd, desperate for rice bags, surged towards the barricades, resulting in a deadly stampede with numerous casualties and injuries.
Maiwada explained the incident, stating, “The disposal of the food items got off to a smooth start at about 0800hrs… However, unforeseen challenges arose when we ran out of stock and announced the continuation of the exercise the following day, leading to a regrettable outcome. The crowd became desperate and charged through our barricades in search of rice bags inside emptied containers. In the stampede that ensued, some fatalities and injuries were regrettably recorded.”
The statement conveyed deep condolences to the bereaved families and announced active coordination with hospital authorities to reach out and communicate directly regarding subsequent measures. An internal investigation has been initiated to examine the events leading up to the distressing occurrence.
Distribution activities have been temporarily halted until the NCS can fully ascertain the details of the incident. This pause is to ensure that future actions align with the Service’s original benevolent objectives and are well-informed and comprehensive, the statement emphasized.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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