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Abuja Government Hospitals to Provide Free Treatment for Victims
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Police Mandate Prior Notification for Public Events to Prevent Future Tragedies
Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have expressed deep sorrow over the recent stampedes across Nigeria that claimed numerous lives. Both have pledged support for the bereaved families and survivors.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday in Abuja, Mr Shettima extended heartfelt prayers and sympathies to the grieving families and assured them of the federal government’s commitment to providing immediate assistance.
“I am extremely saddened by these tragic incidents that have claimed innocent lives,” he said. “My prayers and thoughts are with the grieving families of all victims, including those who sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.
“I am particularly distraught by the fact that many lives of Nigerians, particularly children, have been lost in stampedes that ought to have been avoided through proper planning and organisation.”
The Vice President stressed that the loss of lives was a collective tragedy for the entire nation, not just individual States.
“May the Almighty God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed. We stand ready to support the bereaved families through this difficult period, and no effort will be spared in providing the necessary assistance they need. To those currently receiving treatment in various hospitals, their recovery is our priority, and we will stand with them through this challenging time,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mr Wike directed government hospitals in the FCT to provide free treatment for victims of the stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, which occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Saturday. Ten lives were lost, including children, while 10 others sustained injuries during the event.
Mr Wike, who described the incident as “painful,” assured that the FCT Administration would ensure the injured received adequate medical attention.
He also announced that individuals and organisations planning public distributions of palliatives must now obtain police permission to prevent future tragedies.
The stampedes occurred during Christmas-related events, leaving scores dead and others injured.
On Saturday in Okija, Anambra State, a palliative distribution turned tragic as 22 persons lost their lives, with several others injured.
The same day, another stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, claimed 10 lives during an annual Christmas food-sharing event.
Earlier, on Wednesday, a holiday funfair at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, left 35 children dead and several others injured.
The FCT police command has mandated that organisers of large gatherings notify the police in advance, warning that failure to comply will result in liability for any loss of life or injuries.
FCT Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh emphasised that organisers will be liable for any incident or loss of life resulting from their negligence.
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