FOLLOWING the loss of lives due to stampede at the Old Zonal Headquarters of the Nigeria Customs Service – NCS, in Yaba, Lagos State last Friday, the service has suspended the sale of seized food.
The Nigerian Customs made this known in a statement on Monday.
“Considering the recent unfortunate event, we regretfully 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,’’ the NCS added.
Explaining the incident, leading to the stampede, a spokesperson for the Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, said that: “the disposal of the food items got off to a smooth start at about 0800 hrs.
“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 1700 hrs, 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.
