Buhari mourns victims of stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, FCT

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampedes that claimed numerous lives in Oyo State, the Federal Capital Territory, and Anambra State.

In a message on Sunday, Buhari conveyed his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and sympathised with the affected communities.

This was contained in a statement signed by his media spokesman, Garba Shehu, titled, “Buhari Condoles Loss of Lives in Stampedes, Extends Christmas/New Year Greetings.”

The former President 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.

Buhari 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.

In his message, 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.

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.