President Bola Tinubu has canceled all his scheduled events in Lagos for Saturday, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, in honor of the victims of recent stampedes in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State.
The incidents, which claimed multiple lives and left many injured, prompted the President to take this solemn step.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the tragedies and called for immediate enforcement of strict crowd control measures.
He noted with concern the disturbing similarities between the stampedes at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, a community center in Okija, Anambra State, and a previous incident in Ibadan, Oyo State.
President Tinubu was scheduled to watch the boat parade and other regatta activities from the waterfront of his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi. However, following briefings on the tragedies, he canceled his appearance, even as dignitaries, including Lagos State government officials and white cap chiefs, had already gathered.
The President emphasized the need for local and state authorities to prevent operational lapses by organizations conducting charitable and humanitarian activities. “These mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre- and post-event safety,” he stated.
While commiserating with the victims and their families, Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives and wished a swift recovery for the injured. He remarked, “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.”
Despite his absence, the President extended his best wishes to the Lagos State government and the organizers of the Boat Regatta, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” for a successful and hitch-free festival.
