Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has expressed deep concern over the worsening poverty in Nigeria following tragic stampedes at food distribution events in Abuja, Ibadan, and Okija that claimed several lives.
In a statement on his X page, Chidoka wrote: “They died because they were hungry.”
The former minister that poverty has reached alarming levels across the nation, leaving many Nigerians with a bleak future.
Recalling a survivor of the Abuja stampede, Chidoka shared, “She arrived at 5 am with her daughter from Nasarawa State, was injured in the stampede, yet her worry was, ‘What will my family eat this week?’”
This, he noted, underlines the dire state of many citizens, whose immediate concern is basic sustenance.
Calling for collective action, Chidoka urged Nigerians to emulate the philanthropic spirit of individuals like Ernest Azudialo, Sir Emeka Offor, Emma Bishop Okonkwo, and Prince Arthur Eze.
He encouraged citizens to share their resources, suggesting acts such as distributing food or supporting small traders to grow their businesses.
“Let’s build a Coalition of Hope to renew our common humanity and shared prosperity,” he appealed, stressing that waiting for the government is no longer viable.
Chidoka concluded with a prayer for those who lost their lives in the stampedes, wishing them mercy and grace before their Creator.
“As we celebrate Christmas, let’s pause and think of those struggling to find food, and let’s act to make a difference,” he added.