On Saturday, December 21, President Bola Tinubu announced the cancellation of his scheduled events in Lagos, where he was spending his Christmas holidays. This decision came after two tragic stampedes in Abuja and Anambra State, which resulted in multiple deaths.
The first incident occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command reported that about ten people died in the stampede. Several others were injured and hospitalized. The second tragedy took place in Anambra State, where a stampede during a rice distribution event in the Okija community claimed the lives of at least 20 people.
In response to these devastating events, President Tinubu expressed his deep sympathy for the victims’ families. His spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, stated that Tinubu was initially scheduled to attend the Boat Regatta and other activities in Lagos. However, after learning about the stampedes, he chose to cancel his appearance.
At the time of the cancellation, many top officials and white cap chiefs from Lagos had already gathered at the event venue. The President’s decision reflects his respect and solidarity with the victims of the tragic events.
“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.
