Soludo Orders Investigation into Okija Rice-Sharing Stampede, Mourns Victims

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has ordered for full investigation into the tragic loss of lives in a stampede during a rice-sharing exercise at Okija town in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.

Soludo, also expressed grief over the loss of lives, women, the elderly, pregnant, nursing mothers and children.during the ill-fated exercise said to be organized by popular philanthropist, Obi Jackson.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Christian Aburime said Governor Soludo, had initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede, including working closely with relevant agencies to determine the root causes and ensure any negligence or lapses in safety protocols were duly addressed.

He offered valuable measures including ensuring distributions of such palliatives were conducted in a more organised and decentralised manner, with adequate crowd control measures in place, as well as establishing multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location to avert future reccurrances.

The statement reads in part, “According to available information, the State Government acknowledged that the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organised the event with the noble intention of sharing relief materials with less privileged members of the community during this festive season. However, the resulting tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more structured and safer approach to distributing such assistance.

“The Anambra State Government in a prompt action on the incident has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede. The government will work closely with relevant agencies to determine the root causes of this unfortunate event and ensure that any negligence or lapses in safety protocols are duly addressed.

“Meanwhile, the State Government has also implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritise the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.

“It is strongly advised that future distributions of relief materials be conducted in a more organised and decentralised manner, with adequate crowd control measures in place. This may include establishing multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location; implementing a system to prioritise vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with disabilities; employing trained personnel to manage crowds, ensure orderly queues, and provide assistance to those in need; and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate the public on safety protocols during such events.”