The presidency has criticized Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, over his remarks on the tragic stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja that claimed several lives, including those of children.
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, addressed the issue via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.
Dare described Obi’s comments as lacking decency and statesmanship, stating, “When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or from confusion — what the Yoruba people describe as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — look no further than Peter Obi.”
He added, “His recent comments on the avoidable tragedies in Anambra and Oyo states lack statesmanship and decency, even as he clings to the fading echoes of his much-vaunted political victory. This attempt to score cheap political points falls flat.”
Presidential Response to the Tragedies
Dare emphasized that in moments of national tragedy, leaders are expected to act responsibly and offer support. He noted that President Tinubu canceled all engagements, expressed profound sadness over the incidents, and ordered immediate investigations into the stampedes.
“These incidents have highlighted critical issues that must be addressed,” Dare said, while reaffirming the administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges and improving the standard of living for citizens.
Details of the Tragedies
On Wednesday, about 40 children lost their lives during a stampede at a children’s fair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In Abuja, a stampede on Saturday during the distribution of rice and palliatives at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama resulted in 10 fatalities.
Similarly, in Anambra State, at least 17 residents of the Okija community reportedly died in a stampede over rice palliatives.
Obi’s Reaction
Reacting to the tragedies via tweets, Obi described the incidents as indicative of systemic failures in Nigeria. He expressed deep concern over the worsening hunger crisis, stating that it was unacceptable for citizens to die of hunger despite the country’s abundant resources and fertile land.
Obi’s remarks have since sparked debate, with some accusing him of politicizing the tragedies, while others have called for urgent reforms to address the underlying causes of the incidents.