PRESIDENT TINUBU CANCELS SCHEDULED EVENTS IN LAGOS IN HONOUR OF VICTIMS OF STAMPEDE IN FCT, ANAMBRA

President Bola Tinubu has cancelled all his official events in Lagos today, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, in honor of the victims of the recent stampede incidents in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State. These tragic events have claimed many lives and left numerous individuals injured.

The President was scheduled to observe the boat parade and other activities of the Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his Queen's Drive residence in Ikoyi. However, following briefings on the tragedies, he decided to cancel his appearance, even as dignitaries, including top officials from the Lagos State government and white cap chiefs, were already in attendance.

In his statement, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the victims of these unfortunate incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory. He urged state and relevant authorities to implement strict crowd control measures without delay. The President expressed his concern over the disturbing similarities between the events at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community center in Okija, Anambra State, to a recent incident in Ibadan, Oyo State.

He emphasized that local and state authorities must no longer tolerate operational lapses by organizations and corporate bodies involved in charitable and humanitarian activities. While praying for the peaceful repose of the innocent Nigerians who lost their lives in the stampedes, President Tinubu also wished for a swift recovery for the injured.

The President reiterated that such mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure both pre- and post-event safety. "In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them," President Tinubu stated.

He concluded by wishing the Lagos State government and the organizers of the Boat Regatta, themed "Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life," a successful and hitch-free festival