Tragic Stampedes Across Nigeria: CISLAC Blames Worsening Hunger
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has sounded the alarm on Nigeria’s deepening hunger crisis following a series of deadly stampedes during food distribution events.
CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani described the incidents as a heartbreaking reflection of the severe poverty gripping the nation.
In Abuja, a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, claimed 10 lives, including four children, as over a thousand people overwhelmed a food distribution exercise.
In Okija, Anambra State, a rice-sharing event organised by Chief Ernest Obiejesi resulted in 12 deaths and left 30 injured.
Meanwhile, in Ibadan, Oyo State, a children’s funfair tragically ended with several young lives lost due to overcrowding.
Rafsanjani blamed poor governance and inadequate responses to rising poverty for the desperation driving these tragedies.
He urged the government to adopt urgent measures to tackle food insecurity, unemployment, and inequality.
“These incidents highlight the depth of suffering in our society,” Rafsanjani said. “The government must act now to secure lives, revive agriculture, and restore dignity to Nigerians.”
CISLAC also called for improved planning and coordination during relief programmes to prevent further loss of life.
The organisation stressed that effective and compassionate governance is essential to addressing the nation’s escalating challenges.
