FG condoles stampede victims, urges crowd control for yuletide events

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragic stampedes that occurred during food distribution exercises in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by these unfortunate incidents,” the Minister said in a statement released on Sunday by his spokesperson, Rabiu Ibrahim.

Describing the tragedies as deeply saddening, Idris emphasized the importance of proper crowd management during such charitable activities, particularly during the festive season.

While acknowledging the noble intentions behind organizing relief events for vulnerable members of society, the Minister strongly urged individuals and organizations planning similar initiatives to adhere to the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, as regards proper crowd control.

He also highlighted the necessity of collaboration with agencies such as the police and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to safeguard lives, ensuring that efforts to assist the needy do not inadvertently result in harm or distress.

In addition, the Minister appealed to politicians and stakeholders to avoid politicizing the unfortunate incidents. He stressed that these tragedies are not linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms.

“It is worth noting that similar occurrences have been recorded in the past, prior to the current administration. Therefore, any attempt to associate these tragedies with the President’s reforms is unfounded and disingenuous,” he said.

The Minister reiterated that the government’s reforms, aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth, are designed to uplift all citizens, particularly the vulnerable, without causing unnecessary hardship.

Idris called for a collective sense of responsibility, urging citizens to unite and ensure that the Yuletide season is celebrated in peace, goodwill, and joy, free from preventable tragedies.