Former President Muhammadu Buhari has joined millions of Nigerians across the globe to mourn the victims of tragic stampedes that claimed numerous lives in Oyo, Anambra State and the Federal Capital Territory.
NewsBand reported that a stampede at a children’s Christmas party on December 18, 2024, resulted in the death of at least 35 children with many others critically injured in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Also on Saturday, December 21, 2024, another stampede occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, during the distribution of food items to the vulnerable and elderly individuals.
The incident led to the death of 10 individuals, leaving many others injured.
A similar incident was also recorded in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State on Saturday, at a palliative distribution organized by a philanthropist identified as Obi Jackson, which led to the death of 22 people.
However, in a message on Sunday, Buhari extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu and sympathised with the affected communities.
In a statement signed by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, titled, “Buhari Condoles Loss of Lives in Stampedes, Extends Christmas/New Year Greetings”, Mr. Buhari extended his sympathies to Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, urging them to convey his support and prayers to the families and loved ones of the victims.
He also wished a swift recovery to those injured.
“The former President also sympathised with the Catholic community, which has been affected.
“Muhammadu Buhari extended his warm wishes to Nigerians on the occasion of Christmas and called on fellow countrymen to reflect on the noble teachings of Jesus Christ,” the statement read.
Also, Buhari acknowledged the Catholic community’s loss and stood in solidarity with them during this difficult time.
As the nation prepares for the holiday season, the former President extended warm Christmas and New Year wishes to Nigerians, urging them to embrace compassion, unity, and peace, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“May the New Year, 2025, bring us all prosperity, peace, and good health,” Buhari stated, offering heartfelt blessings to the entire nation.