At least 32 people were killed in stampedes during two Christmas charity events in Nigeriam police said on Sunday. The incident occurred at the Christmas food distribution event. The victims, including at least four children, collapsed during crowd surges as people grew desperate for food items.
The dead included 22 people in southeastern Anambra state’s Okija town. Ten others died in the capital, Abuja, during a church-organised charity event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama.
Police said they were investigating the two incidents.
Vice President Kashim Shettima assured that the federal government will support families of victims of recent stampedes.
He also expressed sorrow over the losses and offered prayers and condolences to the affected families.
Shettima described the incident as a national tragedy and revealed that the federal government had directed relevant agencies to provide immediate support to affected families.
“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.
“I am particularly distraught by the fact that so many lives of Nigerians, particularly children, have been lost in stampedes that ought to have been avoided through proper planning and organisation,” he said.
“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.”
The stampedes prompted the authorities to enforce safety measures at such events. Nigerian police also made it mandatory for the organisers to obtain prior permission.
