GistReel

President Bola Tinubu has canceled all official engagements in Lagos today as a mark of respect for the victims of recent stampedes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Anambra State.

According to reports, 10 people, including children, tragically lost their lives during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

Additionally, over 20 residents of the Okija community in Anambra State died in a similar incident during a rice distribution event on Saturday morning.

In a statement released on Saturday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the cancellation, noting that the decision was made despite the presence of dignitaries and senior officials already at the event venue.

Expressing his condolences to the victims and their families, Tinubu called on state governments and relevant authorities to implement strict crowd control measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The statement added, “President 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.

“Dignitaries, including top officials of the Lagos State government and white cap chiefs from the State, were already seated when the President cancelled his appearance following briefings on the tragedies.

“He noted that it was very disturbing that the events at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community Centre in Okija, Anambra State, 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 innocent Nigerians who died in the stampede, 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.

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.

“The President wished the Lagos State government, organisers of the Boat Regatta, themed ”Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” a successful and hitch-free festival.”