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May 3, 2024
SaharaReporters had reported how the Customs service on February 23 embarked on the distribution of 25kg bags of rice to indigents at its zonal headquarters in Yaba, Lagos State.
The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) on Friday failed to appear before the Coroner sitting at the Magistrate Court 4, Ebute Metta area of Lagos State for inquest into the persons who died in a stampede during the distribution of rice by the NCS.
SaharaReporters had reported how the Customs service on February 23 embarked on the distribution of 25kg bags of rice to indigents at its zonal headquarters in Yaba, Lagos State.
The exercise was however marred by a stampede which claimed the lives of no fewer than seven persons, leading to the immediate suspension of the food disposal initiative by Customs.
The Alliance on Surviving Covid 19 and Beyond (ASCAB), had asked the Customs to compensate the seven victims of the stampede.
The ASCAB in a statement issued by its Chairman and renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, had warned that the organisation would take legal action against Customs should its advice be ignored.
On Friday, Falana, giving an update to SaharaReporters, said that the Customs rejected a letter sent to it to appear before the Coroner over the death of the citizens.
“The inquest of the persons who died in the NCS came up at Magistrate Court 4, Ebute Metta, Lagos today.
“The proceeding was stalled as the letter sent to the NCS to appear before the Coroner was rejected.
“The matter has now been adjourned to 31/5/24 for mention. Taiwo Olawanle represented the law firm of Falana and Falana while O.A Akinde represented the State,” Falana said.