Tragic Crowd Crushes in Nigeria Highlight Urgent Need for Structured Aid Distribution

By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff

G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation

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Image Source : AFP

Nigeria is reeling from a series of deadly crowd crushes that claimed the lives of 67 people within a week at events offering free food. The most recent incident occurred in Okija, a town in the south-east, where 22 people perished during a charity event distributing Christmas donations such as rice and vegetable oil. This tragedy followed similar crushes in Abuja, the capital, where 10 people died at a Catholic church event, and in Ibadan, where 35 children lost their lives at a school carnival.

The rising number of fatalities underscores the severe challenges facing the nation as it grapples with escalating poverty and food insecurity. Witnesses at the Abuja incident reported that attendees, many of whom were elderly and vulnerable individuals, forced their way through gates, leading to chaos. Police later revealed that four children were among the victims. In Ibadan, a crowd of over 5,000 surged into a school compound in pursuit of promised free food, overwhelming organizers and resulting in catastrophic consequences.

These events shed light on the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria. Over the past 18 months, food and transportation costs have more than tripled, driven by global inflation and compounded by domestic policy changes. The removal of a fuel subsidy, intended to bolster the economy in the long term, has exacerbated the immediate financial strain on millions of Nigerians. Amnesty International Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu's government to address widespread hunger, rising unemployment, and a declining standard of living as urgent priorities.

President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedies, offering prayers for the victims and their families. In honor of those lost, he canceled official engagements and urged state governments to implement stricter crowd control measures at public events. His administration has emphasized the need for a more structured and effective approach to aid distribution, aiming to prevent such incidents in the future.

The crushes also highlight systemic issues in organizing events aimed at alleviating poverty. The lack of coordination and oversight in distributing essential goods has repeatedly resulted in overcrowding and chaos. Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi described the tragedies as a stark reminder of the necessity for improved planning when addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. Authorities have since issued warnings to event organizers to collaborate with local police to ensure public safety at similar gatherings.

These incidents reflect the desperation of many Nigerians as they struggle to secure basic necessities. The overwhelming demand at such events underscores the depth of the country’s economic challenges. Effective solutions require not only immediate measures, such as structured aid distribution, but also long-term strategies to address the root causes of poverty and food insecurity.

The recent tragedies serve as a grim reminder of the importance of responsible and organized humanitarian efforts. As Nigeria mourns the loss of dozens of lives, there is an urgent call for collective action to create systems that prioritize the safety and dignity of those in need. Addressing these systemic challenges is essential to prevent further loss of life and to restore hope to the nation’s most vulnerable communities.

The Archaeological Mystery of Stonehenge’s Missing Megaliths

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Innovation.

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Image Source : Mike Pitts

Uncovering the Lost Stones of Stonehenge

Approximately 4,500 years ago, Stonehenge’s iconic silhouette looked very different from what we see today. Archaeologists and historians have long been captivated by its mysteries, particularly the fate of its missing megaliths. Why were some of these stones removed? Who took them, and where did they go? Through centuries of research, excavation, and advanced geological techniques, we are closer than ever to solving one of history’s great puzzles.

A Solstice Spectacle Like No Other

On the winter solstice, Stonehenge provides a mesmerizing spectacle. As the Sun sets, its light aligns perfectly with the towering Heel Stone and the central stone circle, casting an otherworldly glow through the structure’s gaps. Today, only remnants of this once-grand design remain, with several stones missing or relocated. For instance, Stone 56, the tallest and most intricately carved of the remaining megaliths, still bears a projecting bulge that once fit into a now-absent horizontal lintel.

Archaeological evidence suggests that up to six additional pairs of upright stones once marked this solstice alignment. These missing megaliths would have made the ancient solstice experience even more striking than it is today. 

A Long History of Change and Restoration

The Stonehenge we see today reflects centuries of change and human intervention. The first accurate plan of the site, created in 1740, depicted the monument as it had existed for centuries. However, between 1901 and 1964, engineers realigned and reinforced many stones due to fears they might collapse. These efforts aimed to preserve the monument as it appeared in historical records, but archaeological excavations conducted alongside the restorations revealed evidence of a much more complex past. 

Earlier records, such as those by John Aubrey in 1666, hinted that many stones were already missing. Aubrey identified five "cavities" near the circular ditch surrounding Stonehenge, suggesting the existence of an outer stone circle that has since vanished. Excavations in the 1920s uncovered 56 pits, now known as the Aubrey Holes, forming a perfect circle. While initially thought to have held wooden posts, some researchers now believe these pits once supported smaller stones.

Image Source : Mike Pitts

The Missing Stones: Relocated, Destroyed, or Repurposed?

Excavations in the mid-20th century unearthed more evidence of missing stones, including pits indicating the removal or rearrangement of megaliths. In 1979, archaeologists discovered a pit near the Heel Stone, revealing that another large stone once stood there. Together, these stones likely framed the rising midsummer Sun in a striking solstice alignment. 

Theories about the fate of these missing stones abound. Some may have been deliberately broken up and removed. For instance, the fallen Slaughter Stone bears marks of hammer and chisel work, as if interrupted during an attempt to extract a piece. Others may have been relocated to form new structures or circles nearby. 

In 2009, archaeologists discovered a previously unknown stone circle near Stonehenge. This circle, marked by 25 empty pits, suggests that smaller "bluestones" from this site may have been transported to Stonehenge itself.

The Legacy of Looting and Weathering

Over the centuries, Stonehenge has suffered extensive damage from both natural erosion and human activity. In the 19th century, visitors reportedly hired hammers to chip off souvenirs. A 2012 laser survey revealed the extent of this damage, with some fallen stones resembling "sausage rolls" due to the significant material lost to chiseling.

The monument’s smaller bluestones, composed of softer rock, have fared worse than the larger sarsens. Many survive only as stumps or scattered debris, with evidence suggesting some were broken up as early as Roman times. Local folklore even attributes healing properties to fragments of these stones, potentially explaining their removal.

Tracking the Stones’ Origins

Advances in geology have provided remarkable insights into Stonehenge’s construction. The larger sarsens, made of resilient sandstone, are believed to have been sourced locally. In contrast, the bluestones originated from much farther afield, primarily southwest Wales. 

One exception is the Altar Stone, a unique sandstone bluestone previously thought to have come from South Wales. Recent studies using cutting-edge technology traced its origins to northeast Scotland, making it the most-traveled megalith at Stonehenge. This discovery, achieved through analysis of tiny fragments, underscores the monumental effort required to transport these stones to Salisbury Plain.

Stonehenge’s Enigmatic Evolution

Stonehenge’s story is one of constant transformation. While many questions about its original design and purpose remain unanswered, ongoing research continues to reveal fascinating details. From solstice alignments to the relocation of stones, each discovery adds a new layer to our understanding of this ancient wonder. 

For archaeologists, the mystery of Stonehenge’s missing megaliths serves as a reminder that the past is never truly lost—it is waiting to be uncovered, one stone at a time. 

Elon Musk’s Polarizing Focus on the UK: A Billionaire’s Critique of Free Speech and Governance

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business.

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Image Source : Mike Wendling

Elon Musk’s Shifting Relationship with the UK

In 2012, Elon Musk seemed captivated by Britain, tweeting positively after a visit. Fast forward to 2024, and his sentiments have taken a sharp turn, with statements accusing the UK of becoming a "tyrannical police state" and hinting at "civil war." 

Musk’s X platform (formerly Twitter) has become a conduit for his criticisms, featuring exaggerated claims about the UK’s governance and society. From clashes with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to amplifying far-right narratives, Musk’s commentary has raised questions about his motivations and intentions. 

From Admiration to Criticism: The Evolution of Musk’s Views

Musk’s recent rhetoric highlights a stark departure from his earlier admiration for Britain. In the aftermath of riots in Southport last summer sparked by the tragic killing of three young girls false rumors about the perpetrator spread rapidly on X. Far-right accounts, some reinstated under Musk’s leadership, contributed to misinformation. 

Prime Minister Starmer criticized social media platforms for their role in inciting unrest, to which Musk responded dismissively with comments like "Insane." He even shared and later deleted a baseless claim that the UK was planning detention camps for rioters. 

The fallout included millions of views on posts amplifying misinformation, sparking debate about Musk’s role in fostering accountability on his platform. His criticism extended to the UK’s prison system, likening it to Orwellian dystopia during a widely watched podcast appearance. 

Free Speech vs. Governance: A Central Theme

Musk has repeatedly championed free speech, framing it as a core value under threat in the UK. However, his critics argue that his views appear selective. For example: 

- Musk has remained notably silent on China, where Tesla has substantial business interests, despite the country's stringent censorship laws. 

- In the UK, he has attacked laws like the Online Safety Act, which aims to fine or sanction platforms hosting harmful or illegal content, labeling such regulations as restrictive. 

The Online Safety Act, passed in 2023, empowers Ofcom to fine social media companies up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. Critics, including Musk, view it as a potential threat to free speech, while supporters argue it targets harmful content without infringing on legitimate expression. 

Musk’s Growing Political Engagement in Britain

Musk’s influence isn’t limited to online commentary. Reports suggest he is exploring political donations, particularly to Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Musk has met with Farage and Reform UK officials, fueling speculation about his intent to back campaigns aligned with his libertarian values. 

Winston Marshall, a right-leaning commentator and former musician, suggests Musk’s interest stems from a deep appreciation for Britain’s role in shaping democracy. “Britain is the birthplace of liberal democracy,” he states, adding that Musk may see current governance trends as a betrayal of those principles. 

Criticism and Double Standards

Critics accuse Musk of using his wealth to export a one sided view of free speech. Imran Ahmed, CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, argues that Musk struggles to understand that freedom of speech applies universally, not just to him. 

Others highlight Musk’s failure to apply his free speech advocacy consistently. While vocal about perceived censorship in the UK, his silence on China’s authoritarian practices suggests his positions may be shaped by business interests. 

The Bigger Picture: Musk’s Global Agenda

Musk’s actions reflect a broader ambition to influence global discourse. By leveraging his wealth and platforms like X, Musk promotes values rooted in American libertarianism free speech with minimal government interference and unrestrained capitalism. 

His vocal engagement with the UK demonstrates how he views the country as a battleground for his ideological crusade. The Online Safety Act and other regulations may test how much influence he can exert in shaping policy and public opinion. 

What’s Next for Musk and the UK?

While Musk’s ultimate goals remain unclear, his interest in British politics, culture, and governance shows no signs of waning. Whether through financial backing of political parties or continued critiques of government policy, Musk is poised to remain a polarizing figure in the UK’s evolving digital and political landscape.