President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has canceled all official engagements in Lagos, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, to honor victims of tragic stampedes in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State. The twin incidents, which occurred earlier this week, resulted in the loss of numerous lives and left several others injured.
President Tinubu, who was scheduled to witness the iconic boat parade from his Ikoyi residence on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, made the decision after being briefed on the fatalities. Dignitaries, including Lagos State officials and traditional white cap chiefs, were already gathered for the event when the announcement was made.
In his message of condolence, President Tinubu expressed deep sympathy for the bereaved families and called for urgent action to prevent such tragedies in the future. He urged local and state authorities to enforce stricter crowd control measures and ensure that organizations hosting charitable or public events comply with safety protocols.
Drawing parallels between the incidents at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community center in Okija, as well as a similar tragedy in Ibadan earlier this week, the President lamented the recurring operational lapses that led to the loss of innocent lives.
“In this season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them,” President Tinubu said.
While praying for the repose of the victims’ souls and the speedy recovery of the injured, the President commended the Lagos State government and organizers of the Boat Regatta for their efforts and wished them a successful festival despite his absence.
This statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
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