Falana Blames Police For Stampede Death, Demands Compensation For Families

Human rights activist and lawyer, Femi Falana has urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of those involved in the recent stampedes in parts of the country.

Falana made the call on Friday while speaking during a programme organised by the Ondo State Government tagged Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series to honour the late governor.

The senior advocate blamed the Nigerian Police for the recent stampedes in Ibadan, Anambra and Abuja, where over 65 persons died in the process of collecting palliatives.

According to him, the police failed to adequately protect people during the gatherings.

“It was failure of security, it’s not poverty that caused all the loss of lives.

“If there is any process, or gathering, they (Police) shall provide security,” the lawyer said.

Falana said that Ondo State has become a reference point for states in the country by ensuring peace in the state through the creation of the Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun by Akeredolu.

He said Akeredolu dared the federal government to create the state Amotekun which could be likened to a state police.

Falana also said that the greatest tribute to the legacy of Akeredolu was the recent meeting by all the 36 State governors in Abuja with the the Federal Government for the creation of state police.

Falana commended Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the legacies of late Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu of of Ondo State.

“The greatest tribute that can be paid to Akeredolu since he passed on, has come from unexpected quarters.

“The President and governors recently met and approved the creation of state police in Nigeria.

“That is the greatest tribute. Ondo State has exported the Amotekun phenomenal to Nigeria,” he said.