VP Condoles With Victims Of Ibadan, Abuja, Anambra Stampedes

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja

VP Kashim Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has condoled with the victims of Ibadan, Abuja and Anambra stampedes that claimed multiple lives.

This was even as the vice president described the incidents as a national tragedy and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured persons.

News Rider reports that 35 children died on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at a Christmas party in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The Ibadan stampede occured at Islamic High School, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, when the children rushed to collect their gifts, at an event organised by Wings Foundation, owned by the former wife of Oni of Ife, Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunseyi, in partnership with Agidigbo FM.

This followed another stampede where 29 persons mostly women, died on Saturday, December 21, in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, during the distribution of bags of rice by Obijackson Foundation owned by Anambra businessman and philanthropist, Chief Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi.

In his condolence message, Shettima expressed deep sorrow over the losses, just as he offered prayers and heartfelt condolences.

"I am extremely saddened by these tragic incidents that have claimed innocent lives. My prayers and thoughts are with the grieving families of all victims, including those who sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.

"I am particularly distraught by the fact that so many lives of Nigerians, particularly children, have been lost in stampedes that ought to have been avoided through proper planning and organisation.

"This is not just a loss for individual states; it is a loss for the entire nation. May the Almighty God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed," he added.

Also, 10 others died in a stampede during the distribution of food items at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

Shettima assured the affected families that the Federal Government would provide necessary support during this difficult period.

He said: "We stand ready to support the bereaved families through this difficult period, and no effort will be spared in providing the necessary assistance they need.

"We have directed relevant agencies to provide immediate support to affected families. To those currently receiving treatment in various hospitals, their recovery is our priority, and we will stand with them through this challenging time."

This was contained in a statement signed by Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.

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