The League of Northern Democrats has called on stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies, and community leaders, to adopt preventive measures following the tragic food distribution stampedes that claimed 45 lives in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra over the weekend.
In a statement issued on Monday, the League‘s spokesperson, Dr Ladan Salihu, expressed deep sorrow over the incidents and extended condolences to the affected families and communities.
“These heartbreaking events have left us deeply saddened. We urge the government and stakeholders to deploy trained personnel to manage crowds during distribution events to ensure order and safety,” Salihu said.
The League proposed several measures to improve safety during food distribution, including Pre-registering beneficiaries and assigning time slots for collection to minimise overcrowding.
“Establishing multiple distribution centres to reduce congestion and improve accessibility and partnering with law enforcement to maintain peace and order during activities.“
The group also emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of poverty and hunger to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“The government must develop economic policies that foster self-sufficiency, reducing or even eliminating the need for such handouts,” Salihu added.
While commending the generosity of individuals and organisations providing relief, the League highlighted the need for safer and more effective assistance delivery methods.
“As Nigeria grapples with alarming levels of poverty, hunger, and destitution, we urge all well-meaning individuals and organisations to adopt practices that uphold the dignity and safety of beneficiaries,” the statement read.
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