President Bola Tinubu has suspended all official engagements in Lagos, including his scheduled attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, to mourn the victims of recent stampedes in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State. The twin tragedies, which claimed several lives and left many injured, prompted this decision.
The President had been set to watch the regatta from the waterfront of his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. Dignitaries, including top Lagos State officials and traditional white cap chiefs, were already in attendance when he decided to cancel his appearance after receiving a briefing on the incidents.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended his condolences to the victims and their families.
He called on states and relevant authorities to immediately implement stricter crowd control measures to prevent future occurrences.
The tragic events, which occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community center in Okija, bear troubling similarities to a recent stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The President expressed concern over the recurring nature of such incidents and urged local and state authorities to address operational lapses by organizations involved in charitable and humanitarian activities.
President Tinubu also emphasized the importance of event planners adhering to safety protocols to prevent avoidable tragedies. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Despite the somber developments, the President conveyed his best wishes to the Lagos State government and the organizers of the regatta, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” for a successful and incident-free celebration.
