Group Condoles with Victims of Stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, Abuja

The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSAD) has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of victims of recent stampedes in Oyo and Anambra States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, during food distribution exercises.

Tragedies During Festive Period

In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, PAPSAD expressed sorrow over the tragedies, particularly during the festive season.

“We share the grief of the families who lost their loved ones at the distribution venues and pray for the quick recovery of the injured,” the statement read.

The group highlighted the need for proactive measures to prevent such occurrences, urging security agencies to prioritize public safety at palliative distribution centers.

“While the organizers of these welfare distributions had good intentions, the tragedies make it imperative to involve security agents to ensure seamless operations and prevent future incidents,” Dr. Shinkafi added.

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Hunger and Food Security Concerns

Dr. Shinkafi lamented the acute hunger and food insecurity revealed by these stampedes, noting that Nigeria, with over 36 million hectares of arable land, should not be grappling with food shortages.

He called on all levels of government to fulfill their constitutional duty to ensure the security and welfare of the people, as outlined in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The deaths at these distribution centers are a grim reminder of the urgent need to address food insecurity and improve citizens’ standards of living,” he said.

Call for Agricultural Investment

PAPSAD urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in food production and prioritize agriculture in the 2025 appropriation bill.

Recommendations included recruiting extension workers, providing farmers with incentives and credit schemes, and investing in modern machinery for increased productivity.

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The group also emphasized the importance of building social infrastructure, such as access roads, to facilitate the efficient transport of farm produce and reduce inflation, which currently stands at 34.6%, the highest in three decades.

Source: Legit.ng