December Rush Gone Wrong: Bayelsans Count Losses as Vendor Absconds With ₦300m
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — Tension has erupted in Azikoro Town, Yenagoa, after the organizer of a widely publicized “Food Bonanza Contribution Scheme” allegedly disappeared with contributions estimated at over ₦300 million, leaving subscribers stranded and furious.
Residents say the businessman, based on Goodnews Street, Azikoro, had launched an aggressive food-discount campaign that promised 50% price reductions on staple items ahead of the December festive season.
The offer included:
Bag of rice: From ₦80,000 to ₦40,000
Carton of Indomie: From ₦15,000 to ₦8,000
Groundnut oil, tomatoes, and other staples at similarly slashed prices
The scheme required residents, marketers, and food agents to register and pay upfront, with assurances that their goods would be ready for pickup within three days.
Massive Rush, Huge Payments
As word spread across Yenagoa, the deal attracted thousands of eager buyers hoping to take advantage of the rare price slash. Some contributors reportedly paid between ₦1 million and ₦10 million, while others deposited their entire annual savings.
But the excitement turned into chaos on the scheduled collection day.
When residents arrived at the warehouse on Goodnews Street, they were shocked to find the doors locked, with no staff, no organizer, and no information provided.
By mid-day, crowds had gathered, anger rising, as tension spread across the community. As of the time of filing this report, Azikoro Town is on edge, with many contributors demanding answers.
Residents React
The incident has sparked outrage across Bayelsa, with many lamenting repeated cases of fraudulent contribution schemes.
One resident wrote:
> “I don’t know why our people no dey learn from similar incidents. This thing don happen before. I am in severe pain.”
Another contributor shared:
> “This is my saving box money. I started contributing last year November. I opened it this November to avoid stories. I counted 555k. At least I have peace of mind.”
Others blamed greed and desperation amid rising food prices:
> “Don’t be greedy to think you will put 1 million and get 2 million worth of goods. E no dey work like that.”
A witness from the scene added:
> “The people selling these goods have collected money and travelled since morning. Nowhere to trace them. Some people paid 10 million, 8 million… others paid thousands. It’s really boiling now.”
Tragedy also struck, as unconfirmed reports claim a woman collapsed and died instantly after discovering she had lost her ₦3 million contribution.
Police Response
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement, but security operatives are reportedly being alerted as the situation continues to escalate.
