The Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, has reacted to the recent tragic incident in which 63 people lost their lives in a scramble for rice in Anambra, Oyo and Abuja.
Over 35 people, mostly children, d!ed during a stampede at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo state capital, on December 18. Days later, about 10 dead bodies were recovered while scores were hospitalised after a stampede occurred during food sharing in Abuja, according to the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command,
A similar incident occurred in Anambra State over the weekend, when not less than 22 residents of the Okija community d!ed in a stampede during an event organized for the distribution of rice.
CUPP says it is a shame that ‘’incompetence and corruption have become the hallmarks of Nigeria’s governance”
“A country blessed with 39.6 million hectares of arable land, capable of feeding its population and even exporting surplus, is home to citizens who die in desperation, struggling for a bag of rice,” the Coalition said in a statement signed by Chief Peter Ameh, its national secretary.
“This incident is a shameful indictment of our nation’s failure to harness its vast resources to ensure the basic needs of its citizens are met.
“It is a scathing commentary on the incompetence and corruption that have become the hallmarks of our governance.
“The fact that people have to fight for a bag of rice, a staple food, is a clear indication that our agricultural sector is in shambles.
“With 39.6 million hectares of arable land, Nigeria has the potential to be a breadbasket, not only for its citizens but also for the West African sub-region.”
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