IGP Orders Probe Into Stampedes at Food Distribution Events in Abuja, Anambra

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the tragic stampedes at food distribution events in Abuja and Anambra State, which claimed multiple lives and left many injured.

At the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, 10 people, including four children, lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries during a distribution drive for the vulnerable and elderly.

Similarly, a philanthropic event in Okija, Anambra State, resulted in the death of three people and left others wounded.

Addressing the press in Abuja on Saturday, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, announced that the IGP has tasked police commissioners in both states with probing the incidents.

Egbetokun described the negligence observed during the events as criminal, emphasizing the need for accountability.

In response to the tragedies, President Bola Tinubu cancelled all official engagements scheduled in Lagos, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga stated that the President’s decision was made to honor the victims of the stampedes.

“In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones.

Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them,” Tinubu expressed.

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also reacted, attributing the tragedies to systemic failures.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Obi acknowledged the organizers’ intentions but lamented the harsh economic realities driving desperation.

“These tragedies reflect the systemic failures that plague our society.

The desperate quest for survival in these harsh economic times has driven our people to extremes in their search for food, often at the cost of their lives,” Obi wrote.

The incidents have sparked widespread calls for reforms to ensure better organization and safety measures during public and charitable events.

Investigations are ongoing, with authorities aiming to prevent a recurrence of such preventable tragedies.