The stampedes that occurred over the weekend as a result of palliative distribution have been blamed on existential poverty in Nigeria.
Loss of lives that resulted from the stampedes in different locations is said to be unacceptable.
In a press release by Obidient Harmonization Forum on Sunday, 22nd December, 2024 and signed by the forum’s Chairman, Comrade Joseph Enan Maigari, the forum condemned the dehumanizing situation in Nigeria.
The press release reads:
”I am compelled to condemn the dehumanizing situation Nigerians find themselves due to the harsh economic policies of President Tinubu’s administration.
”The recent stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, Anambra State, are a stark reminder of the desperate poverty situation Nigerians are facing.
”It is unacceptable that in a season of giving and sharing, the distribution of food items has turned into a time of grief, mourning and tragedy.
”The fact that people are willing to risk their lives for a bag of rice and other palliatives is a clear indication of the depth of poverty and desperation in our country.
”We cannot blame the givers, but rather the systemic poverty and economic mismanagement that has plagued our nation since 2015.
”The APC-led government has failed to address the rising cost of living, inflation, and unemployment, leaving millions of Nigerians to struggle for survival.
”As a forum, we demand that the President Tinubu’s administration takes immediate action to address the economic calamity facing our nation.
”We call for a comprehensive review of the economic policies, including the removal of harsh taxes and subsidies that have exacerbated poverty and inequality.
”We also urge the government to invest in programs that promote economic empowerment, job creation, and social welfare.
”The Nigerian people deserve better than to be left to fight for scraps in a nation blessed with abundant resources.
”We stand in solidarity with the Nigerian people and demand that their voices be heard.
”We will continue to advocate for policies that promote economic justice, equality, and human dignity.”