The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the recent tragic events that led to the deaths of 63 individuals in a frantic scramble for rice across various states in Nigeria.
Reports indicate that regions including the South East, South West, and North Central, particularly Abuja, have experienced similar harrowing incidents. According to the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, approximately ten bodies were recovered from the scene, with several others hospitalized.
In Anambra State, a devastating stampede at a rice distribution event resulted in the deaths of at least 22 residents from the Okija community. A few days earlier, a stampede at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, claimed the lives of over 35 individuals, predominantly children.
CUPP highlighted the situation as a stark contradiction to Nigeria’s potential. “In a nation endowed with 39.6 million hectares of arable land, capable of sustaining its population and even exporting surplus, we witness citizens tragically dying in the struggle for a mere bag of rice,” stated Chief Peter Ameh, the coalition’s national secretary.
“This tragic event underscores the failure of our nation to effectively utilize its abundant resources to meet the fundamental needs of its people. It also serves as a harsh critique of the incompetence and corruption that have plagued our governance.
“The necessity for people to fight over essential food items like rice is a clear signal that our agricultural sector is in disarray. With 39.6 million hectares of arable land, Nigeria possesses the potential to transform into a breadbasket not only for its citizens but for the entirety of the West African sub-region,” he concluded.
