- By Halimah Olamide
The Nigerian Customs Service on Monday announced its suspension of its food auctions over the death of some of those who came to benefit from the initiative.
The NCS said in a statement signed by Abdullahi Maiwada said unforeseen conditions culminated in the death after the service had exhausted the available rice.
“The disposal of the food items got off to a smooth start at about 0800hrs. 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.
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“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 statement said
NPO Reports the Federal Government had ordered the disposal of the impounded foods materials as part of the measures to cushion the effects of the worsening economic situation in the country.
The service expressed regrets over the death of the victims praying for the repose of their souls.