Seven individuals lost their lives in Lagos during a stampede at the Yaba office of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The fatal mishap occurred amidst the sale of 25kg bags of rice to Lagos residents, highlighting the dire economic conditions facing many in the country.
The stampede erupted as a massive crowd of people gathered at the venue to purchase the bags of confiscated rice, which were being sold for N10,000 each.
Among the victims was Comfort Adebanjo, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), along with six others.
Their untimely demise has cast a shadow over the community and underscored the severity of the economic challenges plaguing Nigeria.
The tragedy has left families shattered and communities mourning the loss of their loved ones. In an obituary released by the APC, Adebanjo was remembered as a cherished member of Ward E1, whose presence will be deeply missed.
The Nigeria Customs Service expressed deep regret over the unfortunate incident, attributing it to impatience among the crowd.
Despite efforts to maintain order and safety, the overwhelming demand for rice led to chaos and ultimately, loss of life.
Abdullahi Maiwada, spokesperson for the Customs, emphasized that every effort was made to ensure the safety of attendees.
However, the sheer magnitude of the crowd overwhelmed their capacity to manage the situation effectively.
The tragic events in Lagos serve as a stark reminder of the profound challenges facing Nigerian communities.
As the nation grapples with economic hardships, the need for comprehensive solutions and support systems to protect vulnerable citizens becomes increasingly urgent.
