The Federal Government has cautioned against politicizing the tragic stampedes that claimed multiple lives during food distribution exercises in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, asserting that the incidents were not connected to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described attempts to link the incidents to the administration’s policies as “unfounded and disingenuous.”
“It is worth noting that similar unfortunate occurrences have been recorded in the past, before the current administration,” Idris said. “Attributing these tragedies to the President’s reforms is baseless and misleading.”
The minister reiterated that Tinubu’s economic reforms aimed to position the Nigerian economy for sustainable growth while prioritising the welfare of vulnerable citizens.
He emphasised that the reforms are intended to uplift Nigerians without causing distress.
Expressing the administration’s deep sorrow over the tragic incidents, the government spokesman extended condolences to the families of the victims and called for better safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
He said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by these unfortunate incidents,” he said, emphasizing the need for proper crowd management in charity events, especially during the festive season.
While acknowledging the good intentions behind the food distribution exercises, the minister strongly advised organizers to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure effective crowd control and security.
He stressed that proactive measures, such as working with the police, are essential to avoid further tragedies during charitable activities.
He also emphasised that the collaboration with the police and National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) is crucial in safeguarding lives and ensuring that such efforts to assist those in need do not inadvertently lead to further distress.
“It is crucial to safeguard lives and ensure that efforts to support the vulnerable do not result in unintended harm,” Idris said.
Idris called for collective responsibility from citizens, urging them to ensure that the holiday season is marked by peace, goodwill, and safety.
“The Yuletide should be a time of joy and celebration, not marred by preventable tragedies,” he said.
He also appealed to organisers of similar events to prioritize safety and adhere to regulations to prevent further loss of life.
