Tinubu Cancels Lagos Events to Mourn Stampede Victims in Abuja, Anambra

President Bola Tinubu has canceled all official events in Lagos, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, in honor of the victims of recent stampedes in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State.

The tragic incidents, which occurred at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community center in Okija, claimed numerous lives and left many injured.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga stated that President Tinubu was scheduled to watch the Lagos Boat Regatta from his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi, with dignitaries and Lagos State officials in attendance. However, the President canceled his appearance following briefings on the tragedies.

President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the victims and urged states and relevant authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures to prevent similar incidents. He expressed concern over the recurring nature of such tragedies, referencing the recent stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The President called for strict adherence to safety protocols by organizations hosting charitable and humanitarian events to avoid operational lapses.

“These mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre- and post-event safety,” Tinubu emphasized.

He also offered prayers for the repose of the victims’ souls and a swift recovery for the injured, reiterating his commitment to ensuring such tragedies do not recur.

Despite canceling his participation, President Tinubu wished the Lagos State government a successful and incident-free celebration of the Boat Regatta, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life.”