Kehinde Fajobi
The presidency has criticised Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for his remarks on the recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, which led to multiple fatalities, including children.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Monday, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, described Obi’s comments as insensitive and unstatesmanlike.
Dare wrote, “If you’re looking for someone who thrives on chaos and misfortune — what the Yoruba refer to as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — Peter Obi fits the description.
“His statements on the tragedies in Anambra and Oyo are neither decent nor reflective of true leadership. While clinging to the remnants of his political aspirations, Obi’s attempt to score political points through these events is not only inappropriate but utterly disappointing.
“During times of such sorrow, leaders are expected to act responsibly, offering support and solutions. President Tinubu, for instance, cancelled his engagements, expressed deep grief over the incidents, and immediately ordered an investigation.
“That’s what real leadership entails. These unfortunate events have underscored critical issues that demand attention.”
Dare also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to addressing the economic hardships faced by Nigerians and improving their living conditions.
The stampedes, which left the nation mourning, occurred in three separate incidents. At a children’s fair in Ibadan, Oyo State, about 40 lives were lost on Wednesday.
Two days later, a palliative distribution at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, resulted in 10 deaths. Similarly, a stampede in Okija, Anambra State, claimed 17 lives as residents scrambled for food aid.
Reacting to the tragedies in a series of posts on X, Obi described them as symptomatic of deeper systemic failures in Nigeria.
He lamented that despite the nation’s rich resources and fertile land, hunger continues to drive citizens to their deaths.