By Olaitan Ibrahim
Following tragic incidents where many Nigerians died in stampedes while rushing for free foodstuffs in different states, the Oodua People’s Congress has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently declare a state of emergency on food.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the OPC General Secretary, Bunmi Fasehun, expressed sorrow over the deaths of 35 people in Ibadan, Oyo State, 20 in Okija, Anambra State, and 10 in Abuja.
Fasehun emphasised the severity of the crisis, stating: “As a matter of national emergency, Tinubu must intervene to bring down food prices to reduce hunger in Nigeria and ameliorate the sufferings of the citizens.”
He further urged the government to take immediate action, adding, “The government must declare a state of emergency on food immediately.”
The OPC also called for the opening of Nigeria’s borders and ports to allow for the swift importation of food, advocating for free movement of both local and imported rice, as well as other food items.
Fasehun said: “Tinubu must allow for free movement of local and imported rice and other food items through the Nigerian highways. This government must mandate Customs and other agencies to stop seizing food and to stop hindering the transportation of edibles and consumables.”
Expressing sympathy for the victims, Fasehun linked the tragic deaths to the widespread despair and poverty plaguing many Nigerians.
“These avoidable deaths sound a loud and tragic message about the millions of Nigerians who are constantly confronted by crippling starvation and deep poverty. Yet governments at all levels show no concern,” he said.
Fasehun condemned the state of affairs, stating that the deaths reflected poorly on Nigeria’s reputation as a nation with abundant resources.
He said: “Why should Nigeria, with its reputation as the Giant of Africa, record such tragic mishaps? Those deaths are a disgrace to our status as a nation blessed with natural resources, abundant human capacity and millions of hectares of arable land mass.”