Take Tinubu Out of Deaths from Stampede, Information Ministers Tells Nigerian Politicians

Minister of information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, has called on Nigerians to desist from linking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic reform policies with the tragic stampedes that resulted in the death of tens of Nigerians in Ibadan and Orkija, Oyo and Anambra states, and Abuja, the FCT.

He gave the warning while sympathizing with the families of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incidents that claimed over 70 Nigerians, including 40 children.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister noted that the tragedies highlighted the important need to ensure there is proper crowd management plan on ground during events of the nature that resulted in such deaths particularly during festive periods.

According to him, politicians and other stakeholders must refrain from politicising such unfortunate incidents, noting that the tragic events are not connected in any way to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s economic reforms.

“It is worth noting that similar unfortunate occurrences have been recorded in the past, before the current administration, as such, making any attempt to link these tragedies to the President’s reforms is unfounded and disingenuous,” he said.

Rather than cause deaths, he pointed out that the reforms are aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy for sustainable growth and designed to uplift the lives of all Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable without causing distress.

Malagi, who acknowledged the noble intentions of organisers of such events, noted however, that there is need for those seeking to bring relief to vulnerable members of the public to comply with extant rules as enunciated by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun.

Among others, he admonished them to liaise nearby police formations for effective crowd control and security measures.

He emphasized that organizers of charitable events must collaborate with the police and the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, with a view to safeguarding lives and providing assistance to those in need.