Kashim Shettima has described the recent stampedes during food distribution events across the country as a national tragedy, offering prayers for the victims and pledging federal support for affected families.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President expressed deep sorrow over the incidents that claimed multiple lives, including children, in different parts of the country.
On Saturday, a Christmas palliative distribution in Okija, Anambra State, turned tragic as 22 people lost their lives and several others were injured in a stampede. That same day, another stampede occurred in Abuja during an annual Christmas food-sharing event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, resulting in ten fatalities.
Earlier in the week, on Wednesday, a stampede at a holiday funfair at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, claimed the lives of several children, with many others hospitalized at the University College Hospital (UCH).
Shettima stated, “I am extremely saddened by these tragic incidents that have claimed innocent lives. My prayers and thoughts are with the grieving families of all victims, including those who sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.”
He lamented the lack of proper planning that led to the incidents and described the loss as a tragedy for the entire nation. “May the Almighty God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed,” he prayed.
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Shettima further assured affected families that the federal government would provide the necessary assistance. He said relevant agencies had been directed to deliver immediate support, adding that the recovery of those injured remained a priority.
“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.
“We have directed relevant agencies to provide immediate support to affected families. 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.
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