The Nigeria Customs Service made a significant announcement on Monday regarding the sale of foodstuffs. This decision came after a tragic incident at the NCS Old Zonal Headquarters in Lagos State's Yaba area, where seven individuals lost their lives in a stampede.

Abdullahi Maiwada, the Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer for the Comptroller General of Customs, revealed the suspension of the food sale initiative in a statement.

The NCS had initiated the sale of seized food items at a discounted rate of N10,000 per 25kg to help alleviate the economic burden on the populace due to soaring living costs. However, the unfortunate events on Friday prompted this suspension.

Reports indicate that a pregnant woman and six others lost their lives in a stampede caused by suspected hoodlums trying to gain access to the Yaba Customs office compound.

Following the suspension, disappointment rippled through the crowd of Lagos residents who had gathered at the NCS office in Yaba to purchase rice. Despite officers' efforts to explain the situation and inform people that the service had run out of stock, the crowd persisted.

Individuals like Toyin Oke-Owo expressed their frustration, highlighting the pressing issue of hunger and calling upon the government, specifically President Bola Tinubu, to address the nation's economic challenges.

Similarly, Adesola Odefunso pleaded for assistance, urging authorities to distribute the remaining food items to those who had been waiting since the early hours of the morning.

In response to the situation, the NCS released a statement in the evening, citing the need for suspension in light of the recent tragic events. They expressed regret over the outcome and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

The NCS spokesperson outlined the events leading to the suspension, emphasizing the smooth start of the exercise but the unforeseen challenges that arose when stock ran out, leading to the regrettable stampede.

The Customs Service assured the public of their commitment to working with health authorities and directly engaging with the families of the victims to determine the next steps forward.