Tinubu Cancels Official Events After Abuja, Anambra Food Distribution Stampede

informantonline.com.ng

December 21, 2024

President Bola Tinubu has called off his official events in Lagos following deadly stampedes during food distribution campaigns in Abuja and Anambra State.

The stampedes, which occurred in the early hours of the day, resulted in several fatalities and numerous injuries.

Labeling the incidents as “avoidable,” the president decided to cancel his scheduled activities for the day to honor the victims of the tragic events.

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“President Bola Tinubu cancelled all his official events in Lagos today, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta in honour of the stampede victims in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State,” presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said in a statement on Saturday afternoon, hours after the incidents which have left the nation in shock.

Onanuga stated that his principal was set to observe the boat parade and other events of the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his residence on Queen’s Drive in Ikoyi.

“Dignitaries, including top officials of the Lagos State government and white cap chiefs from the State, were already seated when the President cancelled his appearance following briefings on the tragedies,” he said.

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President Tinubu has called on the organizers of similar events and “relevant authorities” to implement strict crowd control measures without delay.

He directed authorities to ensure that no operational lapses are tolerated from organizations involved in charitable activities.

“He reiterated that these mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre- and post-event safety,” the presidential spokesman said, passing his principal’s condolence to the victims of the incidents.

”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,” President Tinubu said.