The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described as a “troubling pattern”, three food queue stampedes which claimed at least 67 lives in four days.
In a statement on Sunday, CAN President Daniel Okoh expressed heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims of the palliative stampedes in Abuja, Anambra and Oyo.
The religious institution said it is disturbed by the tragic events at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday morning where at least 10 people, including children, lost their lives in a stampede while trying to seek help from the church.
“This tragedy is not just statistics; it represents real families who are hurting. Each person lost was someone’s beloved family member.
“We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and to the families affected by this terrible incident. We stand together with you in this time of sadness and prayer,” CAN said.
“This incident is part of a troubling pattern, as Nigeria has experienced two other tragic stampedes this month. On December 18, during a Christmas funfair at a school in Ibadan, a stampede resulted in the deaths of 35 children, with six others critically injured.
“The event aimed to distribute cash and food to over 5,000 children. This tragic event is currently under investigation, focusing on better crowd control measures.
“Just a few days later, another stampede occurred during a rice distribution event at a centre in Anambra State. Reports indicate that at least 22 people lost their lives, and 32 others were injured. These heartbreaking incidents highlight the challenges of managing large crowds during charitable events.
“In the face of these tragedies, we recognise the importance of coming together to support those who are grieving. It is crucial that we listen to one another, share our feelings, and offer help in any way we can. This is a time for compassion and understanding as we help one another heal,” CAN added.
