In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the deaths of 10 people, including four children, in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.
In Okija, Anambra State, about 20 lives wasted during a stampede on Saturday during a rice distribution event.
The videos of lifeless bodies strewn on the ground were shared on social media after the incident.
The Abuja tragic incident occurred during the distribution of food items to vulnerable and elderly individuals, leaving eight others injured, according to a statement by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh.
But the executive director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, the alarming state of hunger and desperation in Nigeria are responsible, emphasizing the devastating impact of poor governance and an inadequate response to rising poverty levels.
Reacting to the tragic stampedes that claimed dozens of lives across the country during food distribution events, Mr Rafsanjani described the incidents as heartbreaking reflections of the severe hardship Nigerians are enduring.
“This is a clear indication that Nigerians are facing very difficult times under this administration,” he said.
Abuja Police spokesperson, Adeh, disclosed that four of the injured victims have been treated and discharged, while others remain in critical care.
The stampede took place around 6:30 a.m., prompting a swift response from the Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force, which evacuated over 1,000 people from the scene.
“The FCT Police Command extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes the injured a speedy recovery,” Adeh said.
Following the tragedy, the Police Command directed organisers of public events to notify authorities in advance to allow for adequate security measures.
Adeh warned that failure to comply with this directive would result in legal action against event organizers, holding them liable for any loss of life or injuries caused by negligence.
Meantime, President Bola Tinubu cancelled all his official events in Lagos on Saturday, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta in honour of the stampedes’ victims.
Mr Tinubu was scheduled to watch the boat parade and other activities of the Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi, Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.
Dignitaries, including top officials of the Lagos State Government and chiefs from the state, were already seated when the president cancelled his appearance following briefings on the tragedies.
Commiserating with the victims of the incidents in Anambra and the FCT, Tinubu urged states and relevant authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures immediately.
He said that it was very disturbing that the events at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community Centre in Okija, Anambra.
Tinubu said the two tragic incidents bore a distressing resemblance to the recent incident in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He said local and state authorities should no longer tolerate operational lapses by organisations and corporate bodies involved in charitable and humanitarian activities.
While praying for the peaceful repose of the innocent Nigerians who died in the stampede, Mr Tinubu wished the injured quick recovery.
He reiterated that the mishaps were avoidable if event planners adhered to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre and post event safety.
”In a 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,” Mr Tinubu said.
He wished the Lagos State Government, organisers of the boat regatta, themed ”Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life” a hitch-free festival.
Rafsanjani said the stampedes were avoidable but highlighted the depth of hunger and deprivation in the society.
“The government must urgently adopt measures to address food insecurity, create jobs, and alleviate the suffering of the people.”
He further stated that the escalating insecurity in the country has exacerbated this crisis. “Many farmers are unable to cultivate crops due to persistent banditry and violence, leading to reduced agricultural production.
“The Tinubu administration must prioritize securing the nation and revitalising the agricultural sector. State and local governments must also play an active role in encouraging agricultural activities to curb rural-urban migration and reduce unemployment.”
CISLAC urged federal and state governments to prioritise policies that tackle poverty and inequality while ensuring the safety and dignity of citizens during public aid and relief programs.
The organization also called for improved planning and coordination during such events to prevent further loss of life.
Mr Rafsanjani noted that the tragic incidents serve as a stark reminder of the growing desperation among Nigerians and the urgent need for effective and compassionate governance to address the challenges facing the nation.
