APC condemns PDP for politicizing stampedes, defends Tinubu administration

By Kunle Sanni

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for what it called a “callous politicization” of recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory, which resulted in several fatalities.

In a statement issued by Felix Morka, the APC National Publicity Secretary, the ruling party accused the PDP of exploiting these national tragedies to attack the administration of President Bola Tinubu, rather than offering genuine condolences to the victims and their families.

“These tragedies have united Nigerians in mourning and reflection on how to prevent such incidents through better planning. It is both indecent and despicable for the PDP to use these events for cheap political gain,” the statement read.

The APC also reminded the PDP of the 2014 stampede during a Nigerian Immigration Service recruitment exercise under its administration, which led to multiple deaths.

The ruling party argued that the PDP was attempting to distract from its own failures over nearly two decades in power.

“Nigerians have not forgotten the tragic 2014 stampede under the PDP. It is laughable for the PDP to accuse the APC-led government of incompetence when they left a legacy of maladministration and corruption,” the statement added.

The APC also defended President Tinubu’s policies, calling his administration “the most people-centric in history.”

It pointed to initiatives such as investments in alternative energy, the creation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), salary increases for workers, grants for small and medium enterprises, and continued transportation subsidies during festive periods.

“These policies demonstrate the administration’s commitment to improving Nigerians’ welfare, in stark contrast to the PDP’s baseless claims,” the statement said.

The party further praised Tinubu’s bold economic reforms, claiming they are dismantling obstacles created by past PDP administrations.

“The economy is steadily rebounding as these reforms continue to bear fruit,” it added.

The APC also commended President Tinubu for canceling his official engagements to honor the victims of the stampedes, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to addressing such incidents and ensuring better planning for future events.

The party extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.