Warning of Shutdown: OPS Alarmed by Spate of Truck Lootings Amidst Food Crisis
The organized private sector (OPS) has raised an alarm over the increasing incidents of looting targeting trucks carrying food and raw materials, cautioning that this trend could potentially lead to a shutdown of industries nationwide. The OPS members expressed their concerns in interviews with The PUNCH, highlighting recent attacks on trucks transporting building materials and spaghetti in Ogun and Kaduna states.
These worrisome events come at a time when the Federal Government has announced plans to begin distributing free grains to states this week. The escalating attacks on trucks and warehouses, predominantly owned by manufacturers and other OPS members, are occurring against the backdrop of soaring food inflation and the worsening cost of living across the country.
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President, Gabriel Idahosa, expressed deep concern, stating that the current economic challenges could lead to anarchy. He emphasized that the attacks on trucks and warehouses could exacerbate the problems faced by companies, potentially resulting in their shutdown.
Idahosa highlighted the need for concrete measures to reduce hunger and address the underlying causes of the crisis. He urged a united effort to curb the criminal activities, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as such incidents have been escalating in recent days.
The Chairman of the Kwara/Kogi Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Alhaji AbdulRahman Bioku, attributed the looting to the prevailing situation in the country, stating that hunger and frustration have led to such criminal actions. He called on the government to prioritize the provision of raw materials to manufacturers and ensure security for farmers.
Meanwhile, the Abeokuta Chambers of Commerce Executive Secretary, Alhaji AbdulRhaman Maku, condemned the looting, urging the police to treat the perpetrators as criminals. He also called on state governments to fulfill their promises of distributing food palliatives to avoid further unrest.
In response to these challenges, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise have engaged with security agencies to address the security concerns of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). They emphasized the need to restore investors’ confidence and prevent further damage to the economy.
As the OPS continues to engage with the government, there is a growing sense of urgency to address the root causes of the crisis and prevent further escalation of the situation. The recent attacks on trucks and warehouses highlight the need for immediate action to restore stability and security in the country.
