In a press statement released today, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) accused the Nigeria Customs Service of negligence, holding them accountable for the tragic deaths of seven individuals during a stampede at a rice sale event in Lagos.
HURIWA, represented by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, criticized Nigeria Customs for attempting to absolve itself of responsibility for the fatal incident, labeling their defense as inadequate and fallacious.
“The stampede occurred at the Yaba office of the Nigeria Customs Service during a sale of seized rice, resulting in the death of seven people. Among the victims was Comfort Adebanjo, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada attributed the incident to impatience among the crowd, stating that despite efforts to manage the situation, some individuals became unruly and broke through barricades”.
HURIWA called for Nigeria Customs to acknowledge their failure in organizing the event and to provide substantial compensation to the families of the deceased. They emphasized the need for accountability rather than shifting blame onto the victims.
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The tragic event has sparked public outrage, with many demanding justice for the victims and improved safety measures for similar events in the future.
The Nigeria Customs Service has yet to respond to HURIWA’s allegations as of press time.
