Falana Blames Recent Stampedes on Poverty and Criminal Negligence, Demands Justice for Victims

By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has attributed the recent stampedes that claimed over 105 lives in Nigeria to poverty-induced neoliberal economic policies and criminal negligence. Falana, who chairs the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), described the events as a national tragedy and called for systemic reforms to protect the dignity and lives of citizens.

Organizers of charitable events should demonstrate humanity and decency when distributing food or cash items to vulnerable individuals

The senior advocate identified several incidents of stampedes during food and cash distribution events, including the recent tragedies in Anambra, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He argued that organizers of charitable events should demonstrate humanity and decency when distributing food or cash items to vulnerable individuals.

No member of the elite invites others to lunch by throwing the food

Falana criticized the elite for their treatment of the poor during such events, stating that “no member of the elite invites others to lunch by throwing the food”. He condemned the class prejudice inherent in Nigeria’s humanitarian culture, emphasizing that it is worthy of reflection.

The Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond has resolved to mobilize lawyers to institute civil suits to ensure that survivors and family members of the casualties are adequately compensated. Falana urged the government to take decisive action to prevent further loss of lives, declaring that “enough is enough!”.

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