Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sorrow over the stampedes that occurred in three different locations across the country, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
In a statement released on Saturday night, Atiku described the reports of the tragic loss of lives as both heartbreaking and deeply distressing.
He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the governments and people of the affected states.
Atiku also urged organizers of large gatherings to prioritize effective crowd management to ensure the safety of all participants.
“It is with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that I receive yet again the heartbreaking news of lives lost in tragic stampedes, this time in Okija, Anambra, and Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, resulting in the untimely passing of many.
“The anguish is all the more unbearable, as these recent tragedies strike just days after the devastating loss of nearly three dozen innocent children in a similar stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“On behalf of my family, I extend my sincerest condolences to those who have lost loved ones in today’s tragic events. Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families, that they may find solace and with the departed, that they may rest in eternal peace.
“We also stand in solidarity with the people and governments of Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory and extend our heartfelt sympathies to the Catholic Church, especially to the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama.
“It is imperative that those entrusted with the organization of such large-scale events take the utmost care in crowd management, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants. -AA,” Atiku wrote via his X account.
