Tinubu cancels Lagos events over stampede deaths in Abuja, Anambra
President Bola Tinubu canceled all his official Christmas holiday events in Lagos on Saturday in response to fatal stampedes in Abuja and Anambra State that claimed multiple lives.
In Abuja, about ten people died, and several others were hospitalized after a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama. In Anambra State, at least 20 residents of the Okija community lost their lives during a rice distribution event.
Expressing condolences to the victims’ families through his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu canceled his planned appearance at a boat regatta in Lagos. The decision was made after he received briefings on the tragedies, despite dignitaries already being present at the venue.
”Commiserating with the victims of the unfortunate incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory, President Tinubu urged states and relevant authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures immediately.
“He noted the disturbing resemblance between the mishaps at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community Centre in Okija, Anambra State, and the tragic incident in Ibadan, Oyo State, earlier this week.
“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 souls of the innocent Nigerians who died in the stampedes, President Tinubu wished a quick recovery to the injured.
“He reiterated that these mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre- and post-event safety,” the statement added
