The Human Cost of Poverty: Nigeria’s Stampede Tragedies Demand merciful Action
I’m deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating reports of stampedes at rice distribution centers in Nigeria, resulting in the loss of precious lives and injuries to many others.
My heartfelt sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of the victims. No one should have to face such tragedy while seeking basic necessities like food.
I urge the authorities to thoroughly investigate these incidents and take immediate merciful action to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The welfare and safety of citizens must be prioritized.
The recent spate of stampedes at charity events in Nigeria is a heartbreaking and disturbing trend. Within the past few days, several incidents have occurred, resulting in the loss of numerous lives and injuries to many others.
On December 21, 2024, a stampede at a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, claimed the lives of 35 children, with six others hospitalized. This tragic incident occurred when over 5,000 children gathered for the event, which promised 5,000 naira ($3) and free food.
In another incident on December 21, 2024, a stampede in Okija, Anambra State, resulted in the deaths of several individuals, mostly women, who had gathered to receive food items as a Christmas gift from a prominent resident. The exact number of fatalities is yet to be confirmed.
Furthermore, on December 21, 2024, at least 13 people, including four children, were killed in two separate stampedes in Nigeria as large crowds gathered to collect food and clothing items distributed at annual Christmas events.
These incidents are not isolated, but rather a symptom of a broader crisis. Nigeria is struggling with its worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation, with millions of people facing poverty, hunger, and displacement. The economic situation has become so dire that people are willing to risk their lives to access basic necessities like food and clothing.
It is essential to recognize that these tragedies are preventable. The Nigerian government, charities, and individuals must come together to address the underlying causes of poverty, inequality, and desperation that led to these incidents.
In addition to these recent incidents, there have been other similar tragedies in Nigeria. In March, two female students died in a crush during a rice distribution at Nasarawa State University in Keffi, where at least 23 others were injured. Three days later, seven people died in Bauchi State during a crowd surge over the distribution of 5,000 naira by a philanthropist.
These incidents demonstrate the urgent need for collective action to address the scale of the crisis. Organizations like the International Rescue Committee (IRC) are already working tirelessly to provide vital support to Nigerians affected by conflict, displacement, and poverty. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of these tragedies.
As we reflect on these devastating events, let us remember the resilience and generosity of the Nigerian people. Let us also recognize the urgent need for collective action to address the underlying causes of poverty, inequality, and desperation that led to these tragedies.
We must come together to support those affected and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.
May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the injured recover quickly, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from the University of Abuja Nigeria
