Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the National Secretary of the Labour Party, has expressed deep concern over the recent stampedes that resulted in the tragic loss of approximately 65 lives, including children, across Oyo, Anambra States, and the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement, Ibrahim emphasized that these stampede incidents have become alarmingly frequent. He highlighted that the significant loss of life during a time when Nigeria is not facing any natural disasters underscores the severity of hunger, which he described as one of the gravest epidemics a population can endure.
Ibrahim pointed out that poverty drives some individuals to desperate measures, such as siphoning fuel from accident sites, leading to devastating fires and numerous casualties. He referenced the National Bureau of Statistics, which reported that over 2 million people have been kidnapped in Nigeria within the last year, with a staggering total of $1.42 billion paid to kidnappers during this same period.
He stated, “A significant factor pushing people into criminal activities is hunger. Millions of Nigerians are grappling with food insecurity due to rising inflation and inadequate economic management.”
Ibrahim criticized the economic reforms implemented by the Tinubu administration, asserting that they have inflicted severe hardship on the populace. “Hunger is escalating into an epidemic, and many people are struggling to survive,” he lamented.
The Labour Party had previously cautioned before the 2023 general elections that unless Nigeria shifted its focus from consumption to productive policies, the economy would face grave challenges.
He urged the government to reconsider its 2024 agenda, advocating for a redirection of policies toward enhancing food production, noting that over 70% of Nigeria’s land resources remain untapped.
Ibrahim concluded by reiterating that safeguarding lives and property is the fundamental duty of any government. However, he lamented that the value of Nigerian lives seems diminished, as countless individuals fall victim to kidnappers, while many others are killed in their struggle for survival.
