- Obi: “The Stampedes are a reflection of Nigeria’s systemic failures”
- Presidency: “That’s Not Correct, You Are Politicising Unfortunate Incidents”
By Abiola Olawale
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi and the Presidency have been exchanging words over recent stampedes in the country.
The New Diplomat reports that in the last three days, at least 65 persons have lost their lives in stampedes that occurred during food distribution events in Anambra, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Reacting to the incidents, Obi, in a tweet on his X handle, condemned the deaths in Ibadan, calling it a stark reflection of the nation’s systemic failures.
Obi, a two-term governor of Anambra State preached that the developments across the country should be deep reflection and call for decisive action.
He called on the government to prioritise policies addressing poverty, inequality, equitable resource access, and public safety standards, particularly at events involving children.
“The devastating news of innocent children reportedly trampled to death during a Christmas celebration in Ibadan is both heart-wrenching and a stark reflection of the systemic failures that plague our nation today,” Obi wrote.
However, in a counter-reaction, the Presidency criticised Obi for his recent remarks.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media & Public Communication Sunday Dare, described Obi’s comments as lacking statesmanship and decency,
He accused the former Anambra state governor of using the misfortunes of others to score cheap political points.
His words: “When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or confusion, what the Yoruba people describe as ‘Aríje nínú Màdàrú,’ look no further than Peter Obi.
“His recent remarks regarding the avoidable tragedies in Anambra and Oyo states lack statesmanship and decency, even as he wallows in the fading waters of his much-vaunted political victory. This attempt to score cheap political points falls flat.
“In times of unfortunate tragedy, leaders are expected to speak reasonably and offer support. President Tinubu cancelled all programs, expressed profound sadness over the loss of lives, and ordered an immediate investigation. That is the way of true leaders.
“These unfortunate incidents have undoubtedly highlighted many critical issues that must be examined. This government is committed to ensuring that the economic difficulties of this period are resolved swiftly in Nigeria so that the standard of living of the average Nigerian can improve.
“However, we must not lose sight of the need for patience, orderliness, crowd management, and enforcement of necessary permits for such events.”
It would be recalled that in Oyo state, over 35 persons, mostly children died on Wednesday during a stampede that occurred at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo state capital.
In Abuja, ten people died on Saturday during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama.
On the same day, at least 20 people reportedly died in the Ojika community of Anambra during a stampede that occurred at a rice and gift-sharing event.
