President Bola Tinubu has cancelled all his official engagements in Lagos State to honour the victims of two tragic stampedes that occurred on Saturday in Abuja and Anambra State, claiming multiple lives and leaving others injured.
Stampedes in Abuja and Anambra
The first incident took place at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where a palliative distribution event turned chaotic, resulting in the deaths of 10 people, including four children, and injuring several others.
In Okija, Anambra State, another stampede broke out during a rice-sharing event, leaving seven people dead and many injured.
Presidency Statement
In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu cancelled his scheduled appearance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, where he was set to watch the parade from his Oyinkan Abayomi Drive residence in Ikoyi. The cancellation came after briefings on the two tragedies.
The statement read:
“President Bola Tinubu cancelled all his official events in Lagos today, including his attendance at the Lagos Boat Regatta, in honour of the stampede victims in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State. These tragedies claimed many lives and left others injured.”
President Tinubu’s Response
The President expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and called for urgent action to prevent future incidents. He urged states and relevant authorities to implement strict crowd control measures and ensure proper safety protocols for public events.
He stated:
“These mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols. In this season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them.”
Call for Action
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of enforcing operational safety measures by organizations involved in charitable activities. He also commended the Lagos State government and the organizers of the Boat Regatta for their efforts, wishing them a successful and safe festival.
These tragic incidents follow a similar stampede earlier in the week in Ibadan, Oyo State, underscoring the urgent need for better event management across the country.