Following a tragic stampede that resulted in loss of lives at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Old Zonal Headquarters in Yaba, Lagos State, the NCS has taken the decision to halt the sale of seized food items.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the Customs spokesperson, officially announced this suspension on Monday.
The initial plan, revealed on February 20, 2024, was to sell the confiscated food items as a measure to alleviate the economic challenges and high cost of living in the country.
The Customs initiated the disposal of these items at its Yaba office last Friday, with the presence of other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force.
“The disposal of the food items got off to a smooth start at about 0800hrs,” Maiwada said.
“We enjoyed the cooperation of the large crowd that obliged us, giving preferences to the elderly, people living with disabilities, pregnant women, and other vulnerable Nigerians who showed up for the exercise. This was the case up until about 1700hrs, as attested to by the over 5000 beneficiaries and members of the press.
“However, unforeseen challenges arose when we ran out of stock and announced the continuation of the exercise the following day, leading to a regrettable outcome.
“The crowd became desperate and charged through our barricades in search of rice bags inside emptied containers. In the stampede that ensued, some fatalities and injuries were regrettably recorded.
“The Customs expressed sincere condolences to the families affected by the tragic incident, pledging to collaborate with health authorities to directly engage with the victims’ families regarding their next steps.
“In response to the unfortunate event, the Service launched an internal investigation to comprehensively examine the circumstances surrounding the incident..
“Considering the recent unfortunate event, we regrettably announce the suspension of this exercise until we establish what transpired on Friday, 23 February 2024,” the Service announced on Monday.
“This should help us to properly articulate more robust and comprehensive action that will not defeat the noble intention.”
