The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised alarm over the deepening hunger crisis in Nigeria following a series of tragic stampedes at food distribution events across the country. The incidents, which have claimed dozens of lives, highlight the dire poverty and desperation facing millions of Nigerians.
CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, condemned the government’s inadequate response to the growing hardship, describing the incidents as “heartbreaking reflections of severe suffering.”
“This is a clear indication that Nigerians are facing very difficult times under this administration,” Rafsanjani said. “The government appears detached from the realities on the ground and has failed to address a crisis they helped escalate. While these tragedies are reported, many more may be happening unnoticed as people struggle with hunger.”
In Abuja, a food distribution exercise at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama turned fatal, with ten people, including four children, losing their lives. The event, meant to support vulnerable residents, spiraled into chaos as over a thousand people overwhelmed the venue, resulting in injuries to several others.
In Okija, Anambra State, a similar tragedy occurred during a rice distribution organized by philanthropist Chief Ernest Obiejesi. The uncontrolled crowd caused a stampede that left at least 12 people dead and over 30 injured. Witnesses described the desperation among attendees as overwhelming, even before the event commenced.
In Ibadan, Oyo State, a children’s funfair hosted by Women in Need of Governance and Support (WINGS), led by Queen Naomi Silekunola, also ended in tragedy. Overcrowding at the entrance resulted in a stampede, causing the deaths of multiple children and leaving several others injured.
“These incidents are avoidable but underline the depth of hunger and deprivation in our society,” Rafsanjani said. “The government must urgently address food insecurity, create jobs, and alleviate the suffering of the people.”
He emphasized that insecurity has worsened the crisis, with farmers unable to cultivate crops due to banditry and violence, leading to reduced agricultural production. Rafsanjani urged the Tinubu administration to prioritize national security and revitalize the agricultural sector. State and local governments were also called upon to support agricultural initiatives to curb rural-urban migration and reduce unemployment.
CISLAC called for improved planning and coordination during public aid and relief programs to prevent further loss of life. The organization also urged federal and state governments to prioritize policies tackling poverty and inequality while ensuring safety and dignity for citizens during aid distribution.
“The tragic incidents are a stark reminder of the growing desperation among Nigerians and the urgent need for effective and compassionate governance,” Rafsanjani concluded.