Kehinde Fajobi
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed profound sorrow over the recent stampedes that claimed numerous lives in Oyo State, the Federal Capital Territory, and Anambra State.
In a message on Sunday, Buhari extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the affected communities.
This was conveyed in a statement by his media aide, Garba Shehu, titled, Buhari Condoles Loss of Lives in Stampedes, Extends Christmas/New Year Greetings.
The former President also sympathised with Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, asking them to relay his prayers and support to the families and loved ones of the victims.
Buhari expressed solidarity with the Catholic community, which suffered losses in the Abuja tragedy, and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
“Muhammadu Buhari extended his warm wishes to Nigerians on the occasion of Christmas and called on fellow countrymen to reflect on the noble teachings of Jesus Christ,” the statement read.
The former President urged Nigerians to embrace compassion, unity, and peace during the holiday season. He added, “May the New Year, 2025, bring us all prosperity, peace, and good health.”
The FCT Police Command confirmed that 10 individuals, including four children, lost their lives in a stampede during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday.
Earlier, a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday resulted in a stampede that claimed 35 lives and left many injured.
Similarly, a stampede at the Obijackson Centre in Okija, Anambra State, on Saturday left several people dead and others injured.