President Tinubu Calls for Enhanced Crowd Control Measures Following Tragic Incidents
In a heartfelt response to recent tragedies, President Bola Tinubu has cancelled all official engagements in Lagos, including his anticipated attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta. This decision comes in honor of the victims of recent stampedes in the Federal Capital Territory and Okija, Anambra State, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
The President was set to observe the boat parade from his residence in Ikoyi when he received briefings on the unfortunate events. Despite dignitaries, including top officials and local leaders, being in attendance, President Tinubu made the compassionate choice to forgo the public celebration. He expressed his condolences to those affected by the incidents that plagued the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Abuja and a community center in Okija, noting their unsettling similarity to a prior incident in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In his statement, President Tinubu urged state and local authorities to implement stringent crowd control measures without delay. He emphasized the need for organizations involved in charitable and humanitarian endeavors to adhere strictly to operational standards, thereby preventing any future mismanagement. The President mourned the loss of innocent lives and wished a swift recovery to those injured, reaffirming that such tragedies are preventable with proper event planning and safety protocols.
“During this time of joy and celebration, we stand in solidarity with our fellow citizens grieving the loss of their loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with them,” President Tinubu remarked, extending his best wishes for a successful and safe Lagos Boat Regatta, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life.”
