President Tinubu Cancels Lagos Events to Mourn Stampede Victims in Abuja, Anambra

President Bola Tinubu has cancelled all his scheduled events in Lagos State to honor the victims of two tragic stampedes that occurred on Saturday in Anambra State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The incidents claimed several lives and left many others injured.

In Anambra State, a stampede during a rice-sharing event in Okija community left multiple residents feared dead. Meanwhile, in Abuja, ten individuals, including four children, lost their lives in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama during the distribution of palliatives for the elderly and vulnerable.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed that President Tinubu was initially set to attend the Lagos Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his Oyinkan Abayomi Drive residence in Ikoyi. However, after being briefed on the tragedies, the President cancelled his appearance. Dignitaries, including Lagos State officials and traditional chiefs, were already present at the event when the announcement was made.

In a statement, President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and urged local and state authorities to enforce stricter crowd control measures to prevent future occurrences. He highlighted the similarities between the Abuja and Anambra tragedies and a similar incident in Ibadan earlier in the week, emphasizing the need for operational diligence by organizations involved in charitable activities.

The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He also called on event planners to adhere to safety protocols, ensuring that such preventable tragedies do not mar future celebrations.

Despite his absence, President Tinubu extended his best wishes to the Lagos State government and the organizers of the Boat Regatta, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” for a successful and safe festival.