KEY POINTS
- Presidency accuses Peter Obi of exploiting stampede tragedies politically.
- Obi calls the tragedies a result of systemic failures in Nigeria.
- Tinubu orders investigation, prioritizing support for affected families.
The presidency has criticized former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for his comments on the recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja that claimed dozens of lives.
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, accused Obi of exploiting the tragedies for political gain. In a statement on X, Dare described Obi’s remarks as lacking statesmanship and decency, calling them an attempt to score cheap political points.
“When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or from confusion — what the Yoruba people describe as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — look no further than Peter Obi,” Dare wrote.
Obi criticizes systemic failures
Reacting to the tragedies, Obi had described the stampedes as a symptom of Nigeria’s systemic failures. He expressed frustration that in a resource-rich country like Nigeria, citizens were losing their lives due to hunger.
The stampedes, which occurred during palliative distributions and public events, highlighted the challenges facing the country.
According to Punch, in Oyo State, a children’s fair stampede left 40 children dead, in Abuja, 10 people lost their lives during rice distribution and in Anambra, at least 17 people died in another stampede over palliatives.
Obi’s comments sparked controversy, with the presidency accusing him of insensitivity.
Tinubu orders investigation, emphasizes leadership
In contrast, Dare emphasized President Tinubu’s immediate response to the tragedies. The president canceled engagements, expressed profound sadness over the loss of lives, and ordered a thorough investigation into the incidents.
“These incidents highlight critical issues that must be addressed,” Dare noted. “President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to addressing economic challenges and improving the standard of living for Nigerians.”
The presidency’s statement reinforced its commitment to resolving systemic issues while urging leaders to prioritize unity and responsible communication during tragedies.
