Obi Attributes Oyo, Abuja, Anambra Stampedes to Hunger and Systemic Failures

Peter Obi points to widespread hunger and systemic governance failures as the root causes of recent tragic stampedes in Oyo, Abuja, and Anambra.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has pointed to hunger and systemic inefficiencies as the underlying causes of recent stampedes that have resulted in fatalities across various parts of the country.

The incidents, taking place over a span of five days, resulted in numerous fatalities and many injuries.

The tragic events occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State; Okija, Anambra; and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The last two stampedes took place on Saturday morning during food distribution initiatives.

Obi portrayed the events as an indication of increasing desperation driven by escalating hunger throughout the country.

“The tragic loss of lives during desperate searches for food deeply saddens and distresses me,” the former Anambra State governor expressed in a post on his X account Saturday afternoon.

He stated, “I will not cast blame but instead express appreciation for the organizers of these events and their generous gestures in providing palliatives and support to society, especially the poor. However, these tragedies highlight the systemic failures that affect our community.”

He also expressed concern that the tough economic conditions have forced individuals to endanger their lives in pursuit of survival.

“This morning, Obi expressed grief as reports surfaced that at least 10 people lost their lives and many others were injured in Abuja while trying to obtain palliatives.”

The ex-governor wondered how a nation with such abundant natural resources could be unable to supply food for its people.

“How can we fail to feed our people when our nation is blessed with such vast, fertile lands? It breaks my heart,” he wrote.

Obi also mentioned a previous incident in Ibadan where approximately 35 people, the majority of whom were children, lost their lives during a Christmas Funfair.

The politician expressed his sympathies to the families impacted, saying, “It is difficult to fathom the pain their loved ones are experiencing right now. My thoughts are with them.” He also wished those injured a speedy recovery.

He expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the families affected and the people of Oyo, Anambra, and the FCT during these tragic times. He also prayed for God to provide them—and all of us—with strength to endure such painful losses.