Presidency accuses Obi of politicising stampede tragedies
The presidency on Monday criticised Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General Election, over his comments on the recent tragic stampedes that claimed lives, including those of children, in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.
This was disclosed by Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, via his X handle.
According to Dare, Obi’s remarks were indecent, stating, “When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or from confusion — what the Yoruba people describe as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — look no further than Peter Obi.
“His recent comments on the avoidable tragedies in Anambra and Oyo states lack statesmanship and decency, even as he clings to the fading echoes 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 responsibly and offer support. President Tinubu cancelled all engagements, expressed profound sadness over the loss of lives, and ordered an immediate investigation. That is the way of true leadership. These incidents have highlighted critical issues that must be addressed.”
Dare stressed that Tinubu’s administration remains committed to addressing the economic challenges facing the country to improve the standard of living for ordinary Nigerians.
Ibadan funfair tragedy: Cleric mourns victims, consoles families
The PUNCH reports that about 40 children died during a stampede at a children’s fair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday.
Similarly, on Saturday, a stampede during the distribution of rice and other palliatives at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, claimed 10 lives.
In another incident, at least 17 residents of the Okija community in Anambra State reportedly died in a stampede over rice palliatives.
Reacting to the tragedies in tweets on X, Obi described the stampedes as systemic failures plaguing Nigeria.
He expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s abundant resources and fertile land, citizens were dying of hunger.
