President Bola Tinubu has canceled all his 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.
Reports indicate that 10 people, including children, lost their lives in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, while at least 20 residents of Okija, Anambra, died during a rice distribution event on Saturday morning.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed in a statement on Saturday that Tinubu decided to forgo his scheduled events despite the presence of dignitaries and officials already gathered at the venue.
The President expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, urging state and local authorities to enforce stricter crowd control measures to prevent such tragedies.
The statement read:
“President Tinubu was set to attend the boat parade and other activities of the Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi. However, following briefings on the tragedies, he canceled his appearance.
“Dignitaries, including Lagos State government officials and white cap chiefs, were already seated when the President made this decision.”
Tinubu noted the disturbing similarities between the incidents at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and the community center in Okija, Anambra, to a recent stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He emphasized the need for local and state authorities to address operational lapses and enforce safety measures for events organized by charitable and humanitarian organizations.
“While praying for the peaceful repose of the victims, President Tinubu extended his best wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.
“He reiterated that these incidents are avoidable if event organizers adhere to necessary safety protocols and precautions.
“In this season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers for divine comfort and healing are with them.”