The Osun Masterminds, a civil society organization, has expressed deep concern over the recent stampedes that have claimed lives in various parts of Nigeria, including Ibadan, Abuja, and Port-Harcourt.
According to the executive director of the organisation, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli at the state of the state address on Monday, these tragic incidents are a clear indication of the level of hardship and desperation in the country.
“The sad occurrences are pointers to the level of hardship in Nigeria and it serves as a wake-up call to the President to urgently find ways to alleviate the suffering of the common man who has been impoverished by his Government’s economic policies,” said Oyedokun-Alli.
The group noted that the rising cost of living, unemployment, and poverty have created an environment where citizens are desperate and willing to risk their lives for basic necessities.
“We are deeply bothered and we hope Government can curb the hardship as urgently as possible before we lose more lives,” Oyedokun-Alli added.
The Osun Masterminds also criticized the government’s handling of the economy, citing the removal of fuel subsidies and the failure to provide adequate social safety nets for the poor.
“The government’s inability to implement effective economic policies has pushed millions into desperation,” the group said.
The Osun Masterminds has called on the government to take urgent action to address the economic crisis, including providing social safety nets for the poor, creating jobs, and reducing the cost of living.