By Emmanuel Ogbodo
Former Labour Party (LP), Presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed profound sorrow over recent stampedes in Abuja and Anambra State, which claimed several lives during food and palliative distributions.
In a statement on Saturday, Obi lamented the socio-economic challenges driving such tragedies.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in desperate searches for food.
Earlier, about 35 children died in a stampede at a Christmas funfair in Ibadan.
Today, at least 10 deaths were reported in Abuja during a palliative distribution, followed by 19 more fatalities in Okija, Anambra State,” Obi said.
While commending the charitable intentions behind the distributions, Obi attributed the incidents to systemic governance failures.
“These tragedies underscore the harsh realities of survival in our country.
In a nation blessed with resources, why are our people dying of hunger?
“How can we fail to feed our citizens despite vast, fertile lands?” he questioned.
Obi extended his condolences to affected families, offering prayers for strength and recovery for the injured.
“I commiserate with the families and the good people of Oyo, Anambra, and the FCT. May God grant the departed eternal rest and comfort their loved ones,” he added.
