The Anambra State Government has expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives in the stampede that occurred on Saturday, during a rice-sharing event in Okija town, Ihiala Local Government Area.
According to his spokesman, Governor Chukwuma Soludo has extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, especially the women, the elderly, pregnant, nursing mothers and children who lost their lives in the tragedy.
The government acknowledged that the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organised the event with the noble intention of sharing relief materials to less privileged members of the community during this festive season. However, the resulting tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more structured and safer approach to distributing such assistance.
However, the government said it has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede.
“The government will work closely with relevant agencies to determine the root causes of this unfortunate event and ensure that any negligence or lapses in safety protocols are duly addressed,” a statement by Soludo’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, said.
Meanwhile, the government has also implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritise the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.
It said: “It is strongly advised that future distributions of relief materials be conducted in a more organised and decentralised manner, with adequate crowd control measures in place. This may include establishing multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location; implementing a system to prioritise vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with disabilities; employing trained personnel to manage crowds, ensure orderly queues, and provide assistance to those in need; and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate the public on safety protocols during such events.”