Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sadness and distress over the tragic loss of lives in recent stampedes across Nigeria.
These incidents, which occurred as people scrambled for food and palliatives, have claimed dozens of lives in various states.
Obi mourned the deaths of 35 people, mostly children, at a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, a few days ago.
Another tragedy followed this in Abuja, where at least 10 people lost their lives while struggling for palliatives. Just hours later, reports emerged of 19 more deaths in Okija, Anambra State, under similar circumstances.
While I will not cast blame, but instead appreciate the organizers of these respective events for their kind gestures in providing palliatives and support to society, especially the poor, these tragedies reflect the systemic failures that plague our society, he stated.
He lamented Nigerians’ desperate search for survival during harsh economic times, which has driven many to risk their lives for necessities like food.
However, he emphasized that these incidents underscore the need to address Nigeria’s broader challenges, particularly hunger and poverty.
How do we explain that in a nation blessed with abundant resources, our people are dying of hunger in such numbers? Obi questioned.
The former governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families and communities in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory.
The recurring stampede reveals the severity of hunger and economic hardship in Nigeria as thousands of families search for palliatives.
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