All Progressives Congress (APC) is in mourning following the tragic death of one of its members, Comfort Adebanjo, and six others during a stampede at a rice distribution event organized by the Nigeria Customs Service.
The rice distribution aimed to alleviate economic hardship for Nigerians grappling with soaring living costs.
The incident unfolded as citizens gathered to purchase rice seized and offered for sale by customs in response to widespread protests against escalating living expenses.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, explained that the direct distribution of seized food items was a response to critical challenges in food security and rising essential food prices.
Friday’s stampede resulted in the untimely demise of seven individuals. Oluwafemi Fadahunsi and Comrade Adebari Adewale, the Coordinator and Secretary of FKL Ward E1, Lagos State of the APC, confirmed Adebanjo as one of the deceased during the unfortunate incident.
In an obituary message released on Saturday, the APCexpressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to Adebanjo’s family and the residents of Ward E1.
The party acknowledged the pain caused by the tragic event and prayed for divine strength for the bereaved family and the affected community.
The party articulated, “It is with heavy hearts and regret we announce the painful death of one of our members in FKL WARD E1, Mrs Adebanjo Comfort Funmilayo, of house number 104, Ibidun Street by AKINHANMI Street, Ojuelegba.
“She was among the seven victims who died in the course of buying custom rice at Yaba.
“May God grant all the members of her family and all the residents of WARD E1 the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss,” the statement concluded.