- Minister Nyesom Wike expressed condolences for the 10 lives lost in the Abuja stampede and directed hospitals to provide free treatment
- Wike emphasized stricter measures for public distributions, requiring prior police approval to prevent similar tragedies in the future
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sympathy for stampede victims during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday.
In a statement released by Lere Olayinka, the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Wike directed government hospitals to provide free medical treatment to those injured in the tragic incident.
The minister, visibly saddened by the loss of 10 lives, emphasized the need for stricter measures to prevent similar occurrences.
He mandated that individuals or organizations planning public distributions of palliatives—whether food items or cash—must obtain prior approval from the police.
Wike extended his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the departed souls. He assured the public that the government would ensure the injured received adequate medical attention.
Additionally, the minister commended the Police and other security agencies for their swift response, noting that their timely intervention helped to manage the situation effectively.