Several students are feared dead following a tragic stampede at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, as they attempted to access bags of rice provided for distribution by the government. The incident, which occurred at the convocation square, has sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as the surging crowd overwhelmed security personnel, breaching the gates in their desperation to obtain the rice. Some of the students were struggling with the police over the rice, and as more students got information, the situation degenerated,” said Moses Ajah, a witness to the unfortunate events. As we speak, some students are injured and receiving treatment at the school clinic,” he added.
Reports suggest that the stampede transpired while the bags of rice were awaiting the arrival of Governor Abdullahi Sule, who was scheduled to inaugurate the distribution. However, the situation spiraled out of control before the governor’s arrival.
Despite efforts by police officers to retrieve the palliatives from students, some managed to seize bags of rice and flee to their hostels and other residences. The university’s spokesman, Abraham Ekpo, confirmed awareness of the incident but indicated that details were still forthcoming.
Governor Abdullahi Sule had recently initiated a palliative program targeting students of tertiary institutions. His visits to Federal University, Lafia, and the College of Education, Akwanga, involved the distribution of 7.5 kg bags of rice and N5,000 to each student.
The tragic events at Nasarawa State University underscore the challenges faced by many in the current climate of nationwide hunger. As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stampede unfold, authorities are expected to address concerns regarding the safety and equitable distribution of essential supplies.
The loss of lives in this distressing incident serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for effective and transparent distribution mechanisms to alleviate hunger and prevent further tragedies.
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