Amnesty International, has blamed the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the death of 65 Nigerians in stampedes triggered by the distribution of free food in Abuja, Ibadan and Anambra.
The deaths occurred in separate incidents in Ibadan capital of Oyo State, Abuja the Federal Capital Territory, and Okija area of Anambra State.
In a statement issued at the weekend, the world global Human Rights organization attributed the tragic loss of lives to the widespread hunger, high unemployment, and plummeting living standards under Tinubu’s government.
The group urged the administration to urgently address the worsening socio-economic conditions that have left millions of Nigerians on the brink of starvation.
The statement said: “This week, 65 people died across Nigeria at rice-sharing stampedes: Ibadan, where 35 children died; Okija, where 20 people died; and Abuja, where 10 people lost their lives.
“Millions of people are on the brink of starvation, widespread malnutrition, and deep poverty. President Bola Tinubu’s government must urgently prioritize addressing these challenges.”
In Ibadan, Oyo State, tragedy struck on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Bashorun during a children’s Christmas party organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife.
The event, heavily promoted by Agidigbo 88.7 FM, turned deadly when a stampede ensued among the thousands who had gathered, claiming the lives of at least 35 children.
On Saturday morning, a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, claimed 10 lives, including four children, and left eight others injured.
The incident occurred during the distribution of palliatives to vulnerable and elderly residents.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident.
“This tragic event, which happened at about 6:30 am, led to a stampede that claimed the lives of ten individuals, including four children, and left eight others with varying degrees of injuries,” Adeh stated.
Four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while others are still receiving medical attention.
In Okija, Anambra State, another stampede during rice distribution led to the death of at least 20 residents in the Ihiala Local Government Area.
Eyewitness accounts suggest the casualties may be higher, with one witness alleging over 100 victims, including pregnant women.
Although the police have not confirmed the total number of casualties, the incident underscores the desperation among Nigerians amid severe economic hardship.
Amnesty International has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable Nigerians.
“These tragic incidents are avoidable. The government must ensure food security and protect the dignity and lives of its citizens,” the organization said.
