Former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed profound sadness regarding the tragic stampedes that resulted in numerous fatalities across Nigerian states, including Oyo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.
In a statement released on Sunday through his media spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari offered his sincere condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and extended his sympathies to the affected communities.
In the statement titled ‘Buhari Condoles Loss of Lives in Stampedes, Extends Christmas/New Year Greetings,” the former President conveyed his condolences to Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, encouraging them to share his support and prayers with the families and loved ones of the victims.
Additionally, Buhari wished for a prompt recovery for those who were 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.
In his condolences, Buhari recognized the grief experienced by the Catholic community and expressed his solidarity with them during this challenging period.
As the country approaches the festive season, the former President conveyed heartfelt Christmas and New Year greetings to the people of Nigeria, encouraging them to embody compassion, unity, and peace in accordance with the principles taught by Jesus Christ.
“May the New Year, 2025, bring us all prosperity, peace, and good health,” Buhari stated, offering heartfelt blessings to the entire nation.
Naijaonpoint reports that the FCT Police Command confirmed on Saturday that 10 individuals, including four children, died in a stampede during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja.
In Oyo State, a children’s funfair held on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Basorun, in Ibadan resulted in a stampede that left 35 dead and many others injured.
Similarly, a stampede occurred on Saturday at the gate of the Obijackson Centre in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, leaving many feared dead and others injured.