Kehinde Fajobi
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has held the Nigeria Police responsible for the stampedes that claimed about 70 lives in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking on Friday during a public lecture marking the first anniversary of the death of former Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Falana described the incidents as a national tragedy caused by police incompetence.
“The blame should also go to the Nigeria Police Force because of their sheer incompetence to protect those who lost their lives in those stampedes,” Falana said.
He argued that the police failed in their constitutional duty to protect citizens at public gatherings. Citing the Police Establishment Act, 2020, Falana explained, “Under Section 83, subsection 4 of the Police Establishment Act, 2020, if there is a rally, public meeting, or state rally, the police shall provide adequate security for the people.”
He further criticised the failure of the police to manage protests, political meetings, and public events effectively, adding, “It was failure that led to the loss of lives in those stampedes.
“In traditional political meetings and protests, the law states that the police shall provide security so that hoodlums would not break into protests and cause mayhem.”
Falana called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to compensate the families of the victims.
“The federal government must pay compensation to the families of those who lost their lives in the stampedes because of the failure and negligence of the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.
He also urged systemic reforms to uphold the dignity and lives of citizens, stressing the need for decisive steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa paid glowing tribute to the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, describing him as a courageous leader who championed democracy and the rule of law.
“As we pay tribute to this legendary citizen of Nigeria, this event is a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impacts he had on our state and Nigeria at large,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He praised Akeredolu’s visionary leadership, adding, “Arakunrin Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the Rule of Law in our country.”