Tinubu Cancels Event, Mourns Stampede Victims in Abuja and Anambra

President Bola Tinubu has cancelled all official engagements scheduled for Saturday, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, in honor of the victims of recent stampedes in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State. This cancellation follows a series of tragic stampedes in Nigeria, including one earlier this week in Ibadan, Oyo State, that claimed the lives of 35 children.

Tinubu was expected to attend the regatta’s boat parade and other activities from the waterfront of his residence on Queen’s Drive in Ikoyi, Lagos. However, following briefings about the tragedies, he decided to suspend his plans to express solidarity with those affected.

In a statement released on Saturday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the cancellation. The statement, titled “President Tinubu Cancels Scheduled Events in Lagos in Honour of Victims of Stampede in FCT, Anambra,” conveyed the President’s condolences to the victims and their families.

Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the events, stating, “In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them.”

The President’s decision to cancel his appearance came as several dignitaries, including top Lagos State government officials and white cap chiefs, were already seated in preparation for the event.

The stampedes, which occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community center in Okija, Anambra State, left many dead and injured. Tinubu called for immediate action from local and state authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures, stressing that such tragic events should not be allowed to repeat.

“The recent stampedes, which bear disturbing similarities to the recent incident in Ibadan, are distressing. We can no longer tolerate operational lapses by organizations and corporate bodies involved in charitable and humanitarian activities,” said the President.

Tinubu urged that event planners adhere strictly to safety protocols, noting that such disasters are avoidable with proper planning and precautions. He extended his prayers for the peaceful repose of those who died and a swift recovery for the injured.