10 dead, others Injured in Abuja food distribution stampede
A stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja has claimed the lives of 10 people, including four children, and eight others injured during the distribution of food items to vulnerable and elderly individuals on Saturday morning.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh. four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while others are still receiving medical care.
Over a thousand people had gathered at the church premises when the stampede broke out. The FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force successfully evacuated the remaining crowd to prevent further harm.
The FCT Police Command expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and extended wishes for a swift recovery to the injured. Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, visited the hospitalized victims to offer assistance and reassurance.
In response to the incident, the police command emphasized the need for organizations, religious bodies, and individuals planning large public events in the FCT to notify the authorities in advance.
“This notification is crucial for deploying adequate security measures to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable tragedies. Failure to comply will result in organizers being held accountable for any incidents or loss of life caused by negligence,” the statement warned.
The command assured the public of its commitment to ensuring safety and preventing future occurrences of such tragic events.
Writing by Omolola Ameen
