Following the tragic death of more than ten individuals in Maitama, Abuja, the Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have mandated that all organizations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals intending to hold public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings within the FCT must notify the Police Command in advance.
The incident resulted in the deaths of ten people, including four children, and left eight others with varying degrees of injury. Four of the injured have since been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims continue to receive medical care. The stampede occurred at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, during the distribution of food items to vulnerable and elderly individuals.
According to the Spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force have successfully evacuated the remaining crowd, which numbered over a thousand.
Part of the press release says; “the FCT Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to the injured. In a show of compassion and support, the Commissioner of Police Cp Olatunji Disu psc, has visited the victims in the hospital to offer assistance and reassurance during this difficult time.
“To prevent such tragic incidents in the future, the Command This notification is crucial for the deployment of adequate security measures to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable tragedies.
“Failure to comply with this directive will result in the organizers being held liable for any incidents or loss of life resulting from negligence.
“The FCT Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the Territory. We urge the public to collaborate with the Police by adhering to these guidelines and promptly reporting emergencies through the FCT Control Room at 0803 200 3913 or 0806 032 1234.”
Additionally, there have been other tragic incidents involving stampedes, such as one that occurred during a palliative distribution at the Obi Jackson Foundation in Okija, Anambra, as well as another incident in which more than thirty children were injured during a Christmas palliative sharing organized by Naomi, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife.
