Chaos in Lagos as Customs Distributes Free Rice After Residents Collapse

Amidst chaos in Lagos, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) distributed free rice to residents after two individuals collapsed while waiting to purchase rice at the Zone A Headquarters in Yaba. The customs had initially announced the sale of seized rice to Lagosians as part of efforts to alleviate the hunger crisis.

Thousands of Lagosians gathered at the Customs office in Yaba, eager to purchase rice at a discounted rate using their National Identification Number (NIN). Despite initial orderliness, the situation escalated as the crowd swelled, leading to tension and security struggles.

Sales were halted due to uncontrollable crowds, but determined residents remained, braving the scorching sun. Bedlam ensued when two women collapsed, prompting the customs officers to distribute rice for free. This sparked further chaos as people surged towards the premises, scaling fences and jostling.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, had initiated the rice distribution program to assist needy Nigerians amid the food crisis. The move underscores the customs’ commitment to supporting government efforts to alleviate suffering and ensure food availability for the populace.