The Nigerian government has pledged to provide support to the families of victims who lost their lives in recent stampedes across the country. Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed deep sorrow over the incidents, describing them as a national tragedy ¹.
The stampedes, which occurred in Anambra, Abuja, and Ibadan, resulted in the loss of numerous lives, with many more injured. The government has directed federal agencies to provide immediate assistance to the affected families.
Shettima emphasized the need for better planning to prevent such incidents in the future. He also prayed for the recovery of those hospitalized and offered condolences to the bereaved families.
*Recent Stampede Incidents*
- In Anambra, a stampede at a Christmas palliative distribution in Okija claimed 22 lives.
- In Abuja, 10 people lost their lives in a stampede during a food-sharing event at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama.
- In Ibadan, several children lost their lives during a fun fair.
*Government Response*
The government has promised to provide support to the families of the victims. This includes financial assistance, medical care, and counseling services.
In addition to the federal government's response, state governments have also taken steps to support the affected families. For example, the Oyo state government has promised to investigate the carnival stampede in Ibadan and ensure that justice is served ².
*Calls for Better Planning*
The recent stampede incidents have highlighted the need for better planning and coordination in the distribution of palliatives and the organization of large events.
The Nigeria Customs Service has pledged support for the family of one of the victims of the tragic stampede that occurred during the sale of rice in Lagos ³.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to victims of the Abuja stampede ⁴.
*Conclusion*
The Nigerian government's promise to support the families of stampede victims is a welcome development. However, it is essential that the government takes concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
This includes providing guidance on crowd control, supporting event organizers with resources and expertise, and ensuring that emergency services are readily available.
By working together, we can prevent such tragedies from occurring and ensure that the families of the victims receive the support they need.
