The federal government has called on politicians and stakeholders to refrain from politicising the tragic stampede incidents during food distribution exercises in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, which claimed the lives of no fewer than 37 people.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, clarified that the unfortunate events were not connected to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms.
He emphasized: “It is worth noting that similar unfortunate occurrences have been recorded in the past, before the current administration. Linking these tragedies to the President’s reforms is both unfounded and disingenuous.”
Idris reiterated that the administration’s economic reforms aim to reposition the economy for sustainable growth and uplift the lives of all Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable, without causing undue hardship.
He urged citizens to embrace a collective sense of responsibility and work towards ensuring that the Yuletide season is marked by peace and joy, free from preventable tragedies.
The minister also expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragic incidents.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by these unfortunate incidents,” he said.
The minister said the tragedies are deeply saddening and underscore the importance of ensuring proper crowd management during such charitable activities, especially during the festive season.
While acknowledging the noble intentions of organizers seeking to bring relief to vulnerable members of society, the Minister strongly admonishes all individuals and organizations planning similar events to comply with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun on liaising with the police formations for effective crowd control and security measures.
He emphasized that collaboration with the police and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), is crucial to safeguarding lives and ensuring that such efforts to assist those in need do not inadvertently lead to further distress.
