Food Crisis: OPS Raises Alarm Over Rampant Looting, Warns Of Impending Shutdowns

Food Crisis: OPS Raises Alarm Over Rampant Looting, Warns Of Impending Shutdowns

The Organised Private Sector (OPS) has sounded the alarm over the escalating incidents of looting targeting trucks transporting food and essential raw materials, warning of potential nationwide industrial shutdowns……READ ALSO Northern States Face Imminent Food Crisis”

In response to the worsening food crisis and soaring cost of living, hoodlums have been brazenly attacking trucks carrying vital supplies, posing a grave threat to industries across the country.

Numerous incidents of looting have been reported, with miscreants targeting trucks and warehouses belonging to manufacturers and other OPS members. Recent attacks in Ogun and Kaduna states saw trucks carrying building materials and spaghetti looted by suspected hoodlums.

Last week, youths in Niger State pillaged food items from trucks stranded in traffic along the Kaduna Road in the Suleja area. In another instance, a warehouse owned by the Agricultural and Rural Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration was raided in the Dei-Dei area of Abuja, resulting in the looting of rice, grains, and relief supplies.

The President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gabriel Idahosa, expressed concern that the ongoing economic challenges are fueling anarchy, with attacks on trucks and warehouses threatening the viability of companies and potentially leading to shutdowns.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Idahosa emphasized the need for decisive action to address hunger and prevent further escalation of lawlessness. He underscored the significant financial losses incurred by major manufacturing firms due to the spate of looting, warning of dire consequences if the trend continues unchecked.

Similarly, the Chairman of Kwara/Kogi Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, AbdulRahman Bioku, linked the rampant looting to widespread hunger and frustration among the populace. Bioku stressed that inadequate government palliatives cannot fully address the people’s needs, urging authorities to prioritize transportation and security for farmers.

The Executive Secretary of Abeokuta Chambers of Commerce, AbdulRhaman Maku, condemned the looting spree and called on law enforcement agencies to treat such actions as criminal behavior. He urged state governors to expedite the distribution of promised food palliatives to prevent further unrest.

As the government announces plans to distribute free grains to states, the OPS emphasizes the need for swift and decisive action to address the root causes of the crisis and ensure the protection of businesses and livelihoods during these challenging times.