Vice President Kashim Shettima, expressed his deep sorrow and condolences to the families of those affected by the recent tragic stampedes across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Information and Strategy, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima described the incidents as a national tragedy and underscored the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols at public events.
The stampedes, which have claimed numerous lives, occurred on Saturday in Okija, Anambra State, during a Christmas palliative distribution, where 22 people tragically died, and several others were injured.
On the same day, another incident occurred in Abuja during an annual Christmas food-sharing event at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, where 10 people lost their lives.
These incidents followed a deadly stampede on Wednesday at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, where multiple children died during a holiday celebration, and others were rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH) for medical care.
In his message of condolence, Vice President Shettima expressed profound sadness over the tragic events, offering prayers and extending heartfelt condolences to the victims families.
“I am deeply saddened by these tragic incidents that have taken innocent lives.
My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families of the victims, as well as those who sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment,” he said.
“I am particularly heartbroken by the loss of so many lives, especially children, in stampedes that should have been prevented through proper planning and organisation.
This is not just a loss for the affected states, but for our entire nation. May God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed,” he continued.
Shettima also reassured the affected families that the federal government would provide all necessary support during this difficult time.
“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and are committed to providing them with the support they need,” he affirmed.
“We have directed relevant agencies to offer immediate assistance to those affected, and the recovery of those receiving treatment in hospitals is our top priority.
We will stand by them every step of the way,” Shettima concluded.
