The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has decided to halt the sale of foodstuffs after a tragic stampede resulting in seven fatalities at their Old Zonal Headquarters in Lagos State.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer for Comptroller General of Customs, confirmed this suspension.
The NCS had initiated the sale of seized food items at reduced prices to alleviate economic hardships, but the endeavor took a grim turn with the loss of lives, including that of a pregnant woman and six others.
Despite attempts to notify the crowd about the depletion of stock, people continued to gather, expressing disappointment over the sudden halt.
Among them, Toyin Oke-Owo pleaded for intervention from President Bola Tinubu, underscoring the urgency of the hunger crisis.
Another, Adesola Odefunso, urged for the equitable distribution of available rice to those who had waited since the early hours.
In a statement, the NCS announced the suspension pending a thorough investigation into the incident.
The spokesman detailed the smooth commencement of the distribution and the subsequent challenges leading to the unfortunate stampede.
However, the Customs extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pledged collaboration with health authorities to provide further support.
