Nation Faces Growing Concerns Amid Recent Tragedies and Hardship

Anglican Leader Raises Alarm Over Hunger and Stampede Deaths in Nigeria

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Nicholas Ndukuba, has expressed concern over the rising number of deaths caused by stampedes during food distribution events, attributing them to widespread hunger in the country. Speaking in Abuja, he urged immediate action to address poverty and the growing hardship faced by Nigerians.

Ndukuba highlighted the challenges citizens are facing, particularly after the removal of fuel subsidies and soaring food prices, which have made it difficult for families to meet basic needs.

“This year has been tougher than the last,” he noted. “Hunger and poverty must be tackled urgently. Food security should be a priority, and insecurity, which prevents farmers from cultivating their land, needs immediate attention.”

In a related message, the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, called on the government and leaders to take practical steps to ease the suffering of Nigerians. Delivering his Christmas message titled “Jesus Christ is the Reason for the Season,” Bishop Ike mourned the tragic deaths in recent stampedes during food distribution efforts in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.

“These incidents happened because hunger is widespread. The government must act now, as passing budgets and issuing statements will mean nothing if the root causes of hardship and hunger are not addressed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, extended his condolences to the victims and families affected by the stampedes. In a personal statement, he described the incidents as heartbreaking and called for better crowd management during food distribution to prevent further tragedies.

“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring no Nigerian goes to bed hungry,” Kyari affirmed. “The President is focused on improving food security and ensuring that everyone has access to affordable and nutritious food.”

He urged organizations distributing food to work with security agencies to safeguard lives and maintain order during such activities.

Here’s the video of the week: