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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has instructed government hospitals to provide free medical care to individuals injured in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja.
The directive was communicated through a statement by Lere Olayinka, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, on Saturday.
The stampede, which occurred around 6:30 a.m. during the distribution of food items to the less privileged and elderly, claimed the lives of at least 10 people, including children, while injuring another 10.
Wike assured that the FCT Administration would ensure all injured victims received proper medical attention. Expressing his condolences, he described the incident as “painful” and prayed for the deceased while offering support to their families.
To prevent similar occurrences, Wike directed that organizations and individuals must obtain police approval before organizing public distributions of palliatives or charitable items.
The FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) also extended its condolences to the victims.
Acting Director General Abdulrahman Mohammed reported that nine of the 10 injured persons taken to Maitama District Hospital have been treated and discharged.
He urged organizations distributing aid to collaborate with security agencies or FEMD to ensure proper planning and safety measures.
Suggestions included using coupons and organizing beneficiaries into smaller groups to avoid overcrowding and potential chaos.
In a related development, the FCT Police Command has mandated prior notification for public events, including charity distributions, to facilitate adequate security arrangements.
Spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh warned that organizers failing to comply would be held accountable for any casualties arising from negligence.
Additionally, the Nigeria Police Force, represented by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a broader warning against unregulated distribution of palliatives.
Citing a rising number of stampedes during such events, Adejobi urged careful planning to prevent further loss of life among vulnerable groups.