Stampede deaths: FG orders police involvement in food distribution events

The Federal Government has directed individuals and organisations planning food distribution events to work closely with the police and other law enforcement agencies to ensure proper crowd management and prevent further tragedies......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, issued the directive on Sunday following recent stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija that claimed 65 lives and left many injured.

On Saturday, December 21, a Christmas palliative distribution in Okija, Anambra State, turned tragic, resulting in the deaths of 22 people and leaving many injured.

The same day, in Abuja, 10 lives were lost during a food-sharing event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama.

Earlier, on Wednesday, December 18, a stampede at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, during a holiday funfair, led to the deaths of several children and left others injured.

“These incidents are deeply saddening,” said Idris. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by these unfortunate events.”

The Minister emphasized the importance of collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure lives are safeguarded during such events.

“This directive is crucial to ensure that efforts to assist vulnerable Nigerians do not lead to further distress,” Idris stated.

He also appealed to politicians and stakeholders to avoid politicizing the incidents, noting that similar occurrences had happened in the past, before the current administration.

“These tragedies are not connected to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms. The reforms are aimed at uplifting all Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable,” he added.

Vice President Kashim Shettima described the stampedes as a national tragedy.

“I am deeply saddened by these incidents that have claimed so many innocent lives, particularly children,” Shettima said in a condolence message.

He assured grieving families of the Federal Government’s support during this challenging time.

“We are ready to provide assistance to the bereaved families and ensure the recovery of those injured. May the Almighty God grant eternal rest to the departed,” he said.

The Federal Government has called for a collective sense of responsibility to ensure the festive season is marked by peace and goodwill.

Idris urged all stakeholders to prioritize proper planning and organization for charitable activities, emphasizing that preventable tragedies must not be allowed to overshadow acts of kindness.