FG: Tinubu’s Reforms Not to Blame for Tragic Food Stampedes

The Federal Government dismisses claims linking President Tinubu’s reforms to recent tragic food stampedes, urging focus on systemic challenges.

The Federal Government has advised against politicizing the tragic stampedes that resulted in multiple fatalities during food distribution events in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija. They stressed that these incidents are not related to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.

In a statement released on Sunday, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, labeled attempts to connect the incidents with the administration’s policies as “baseless and misleading.”

“It is important to highlight that similar unfortunate events have been documented in the past, prior to the current administration,” Idris stated. “Blaming these tragedies on the President’s reforms is unfounded and misleading.”

The minister emphasized that Tinubu’s economic reforms are designed to foster sustainable growth in the Nigerian economy, with a focus on prioritizing the welfare of vulnerable citizens.

He stressed that the reforms aim to improve the lives of Nigerians without causing any hardship.

The government spokesman conveyed the administration’s profound sorrow over the tragic events, offered condolences to the victims’ families, and urged for improved safety measures to prevent future incidents.

He expressed his condolences, stating that their thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by these unfortunate incidents. He further highlighted the importance of proper crowd management at charity events, especially during festive seasons.

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The minister recognized the good intentions of the food distribution efforts but strongly recommended that organizers work with law enforcement agencies to ensure effective crowd control and security.

He emphasized the importance of taking proactive steps, such as collaborating with the police, to prevent further tragedies during charitable events.

He further highlighted the importance of collaborating with the police and National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) to protect lives, ensuring that efforts to aid those in need do not unintentionally cause additional distress.

“It is essential to protect lives and make certain that efforts aimed at assisting the vulnerable don’t lead to unforeseen harm,” stated Idris.

Idris urged citizens to embrace collective responsibility, encouraging them to ensure that the holiday season is characterized by peace, goodwill, and safety.

“The holiday season should be a period of joy and celebration, not overshadowed by preventable tragedies,” he stated.

He also urged organizers of similar events to prioritize safety and follow regulations to prevent any further loss of life.