- Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to victims of the Abuja stampede.
- At least 10 people, including children, lost their lives, and 10 others sustained injuries during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.
- Wike has also directed that police permission should be obtained by individuals or organizations planning public distribution of palliatives.
A tragic stampede occurred during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, resulting in the loss of at least 10 lives, including children, and injuring 10 others. In response, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to the victims.
Wike expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, describing the incident as “painful.” He also commended the Police and other security agencies for their prompt intervention, stating that their response was “commendable”.
To prevent similar incidents in the future, Wike directed that police permission should be obtained by individuals or organizations planning public distribution of palliatives. The FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) also appealed to organizations to involve security agencies or FEMD in their planning to ensure the safety of beneficiaries ³.
Additionally, the Police Command in the FCT has ordered organizations to notify the police when planning public events or large gatherings, and the Nigeria Police Force has warned against the unorganized distribution of palliatives and funfairs, which can lead to stampedes and fatalities.
