Not less than 20 residents have lost their lives during a rice-sharing event in Okija town, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state.
The stampede occurred on Saturday during an event for the distribution of rice by Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi.
Meanwhile, Anambra State Government has expressed deep grief over the tragic loss of lives in the stampede.
Governor of the state, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, in a statement by his press secretary, Christian Aburime said anyone sharing food items to indigent people must henceforth prioritize their safety.
“In his expression of sympathy, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, extends his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, especially the women, the elderly, pregnant, nursing mothers and children who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident.
“The State Government has also implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritise the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.
“The resulting tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more structured and safer approach to distributing such assistance.
“According to available information, the State Government acknowledged that the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organised the event with the noble intention of sharing relief materials with less privileged members of the community during this festive season.”
He said that the Anambra State government had 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.
“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,” he said.
