PALLIATIVE STAMPEDES: NAS CONDOLES DECEASED FAMILIES, CALLS ON FG TO TACKLE RISING HUNGER
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) says it is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of over 60 lives in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja during recent palliative distribution stampedes.
The association, in a statement on Sunday by the NAS Capn, Dr. Joseph Oteri, said these needless deaths, a grim reflection of the desperation gripping many Nigerians, underscore the rising hunger and economic hardship that has engulfed our nation.
"While we commend the efforts of well-meaning individuals and organisations in Oyo, Anambra and Abuja to alleviate the plight of vulnerable citizens through palliatives, it is evident that these measures have been marred by inadequate planning, poor coordination," the statement said.
However, the chaotic scenes that led to these fatal incidents are an indictment of the systemic failure to address the root causes of hunger and poverty.
The group noted that rising hunger in Nigeria is a national emergency that demands urgent action.
Failure to act decisively will deepen the crisis, with devastating social, economic, and political consequences.
“We mourn with the families of the deceased and demand that the government ensures accountability for this avoidable tragedy. Hunger should never be a death sentence in a country blessed with abundant resources.
“It is time to rise to the challenge of ensuring that every Nigerian can live with dignity, free from the scourge of poverty and hunger,” it added.
Therefore, the association has called on all levels of government to urgently prioritize sustainable solutions to the hunger crisis.
It said, “Palliatives must reach the intended beneficiaries without endangering lives. Transparent and well-organised systems, with the involvement of community leaders and credible NGOs, should be put in place to avoid chaotic distributions.
“Beyond temporary relief measures, the government must develop long-term strategies to enhance food production, support local farmers, and stabilize food prices.
“Programmes aimed at addressing the needs of the most vulnerable must be scaled up. Access to affordable healthcare, education, and social safety nets is critical to lifting millions out of poverty.
“Policies that create jobs and enhance income-generating opportunities should be fast-tracked to reduce dependency on palliatives.”
The association noted that two chapters in Edo State (Area 3) recently had successful palliative programmes, during which over 2000 less privileged persons were fed.
It added that one of the key components of the programme was orderliness.
NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri
December 22, 2024
