- Tragedy strikes as seven individuals lose their lives in a stampede during the sale of seized rice in Lagos
- Chaos ensues at the customs’ zonal office as armed individuals attempt to forcefully enter the venue, resulting in fatalities
Seven individuals tragically lost their lives in a stampede that occurred during the sale of seized rice by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Lagos State.
The incident unfolded at the customs’ zonal office on Harvey Road, Yaba, Lagos, where a large crowd had gathered for the open sales event. The rice, priced at N10,000 per 25kg bag, attracted dozens of buyers seeking relief from the escalating costs of essential food items.
The customs, under the supervision of Comptroller General Wale Adeniyi, initiated the sale as a measure to alleviate the economic challenges faced by citizens due to rising food prices.
Initially, the sales commenced in an orderly manner. However, chaos erupted when armed individuals, dressed in camouflage attire, attempted to forcefully gain entry to the venue. Tragically, in the ensuing stampede, a pregnant woman and six others lost their lives.
An eyewitness, Comfort James, described the scene as chaotic and uncontrolled, with people pushing and trampling over each other in a desperate attempt to access the rice. Despite efforts by the customs officials and the arrival of the police, the situation spiraled out of control.
Abdullahi Maiwada, spokesperson for the customs, confirmed the occurrence of fainting episodes during the stampede, with individuals requiring urgent medical attention. However, he refrained from confirming fatalities.
Dr. Adunola Yemoka, in a social media post, disclosed the unfortunate demise of one of the victims who was brought to her hospital for treatment.
The tragedy struck close to home for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, as one of its members, Mrs. Adebanjo Comfort Funmilayo, was identified as among the casualties of the stampede.
The incident underscores the urgent need for proper crowd control measures and enhanced security protocols during such events to prevent avoidable loss of lives.
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