Police cordon off Okija rice stampede scene, as Obijackson Foundation, Soludo investigate incident

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By Madu Obi

The Anambra State Police command has deployed its men at the scene of the stampede at Okija, Ihiala local government area of the state where several people lost their lives during the distribution of Christmas rice by Obijackson Foundation.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who said it was to avert further unforeseen circumstances, observed that the incident occurred because a large number of uncontrolled persons took over the event area before it started, resulting in the stampede.

This came as the Obijackson Foundation, the organization that distributed the rice, expressed deep sorrow over the death of many people during its annual rice sharing event.

A press release by the Foundation said the incident will be thoroughly investigated to find out the cause of the stampede, so as to forestall future occurrence.

It, however, stated that the incident would not deter it from engaging in philanthropy.

While consoling the affected families, and the governor of the state, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, the Foundation assured that such incident would never happen in any of its events in the future.

The release read: "The event, a cherished tradition aimed at supporting the less privileged during the Yuletide season, turned somber when an unfortunate stampede claimed lives and left several families grieving.

The Annual Rice Sharing event is a labor of love, aimed at bringing joy and retief to those in need. That it resulted in such sorrow is devastating beyond words.”

We pledge to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy thoroughly and to implement enhanced safety measures for future events.

We humbly seek the understanding of our community as we reflect on this painful moment. This setback will not deter us from our mission to serve the vulnerable and uplift those in need. We will learn from this experience and strive to do better,” the statement read.

"The Obijackson Foundation, known for its philanthropic Initiatives across Anambra State, has for years been synonymous with hope and generosity. Our Annual Rice Sharing event has become a vital lifeline for many families in Okija, reflecting the Foundation’s dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind during the festive season.

We commend the swift response of security personnel and rescue workers, whose efforts helped mitigate the impact of the incident. As the community mourns, the Foundation reiterates its commitment to supporting those affected and continuing its charitable endeavors in more controlled and secure ways.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over what is usually a joyous season in Okija, but the Obijackson Foundation remains steadfast in its resolve to serve the less privileged.

The incident, though heartbreaking, further strengthens the profound love and dedication the Obijackson Foundation have for the people of Okija. Through this challenging moment, the Foundation has reaffirmed its resolve to serve the people, while ensuring its legacy of kindness and compassion do not waver.

The community, while grieving, continues to recognize and appreciate the positive impact of the Foundation's work and looks forward to safer and more impactful initiatives in the future."

Meanwhile, the Anambra State government has expressed deep grief on the tragic loss of lives in the stampede.

In his expression of sympathy, Governor Chukwuma Soludo extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, especially the women, the elderly, pregnant, nursing mothers and children who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident.

Press secretary to the governor, Mr. Christian Aburime, in a statement, said the state government acknowledged that the Obijackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organized the event with the noble intention of sharing relief materials with the less privileged members of the community during this festive season, saying, however, that the resulting tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more structured and safer approach to distributing such assistance.

His statement read: "The Anambra State government in a prompt action on the incident, has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede.

The government will work closely with relevant agencies to determine the root cause of this unfortunate event and ensure that any negligence or lapses in safety protocols are duly addressed.

Government has also implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritize the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.

It is strongly advised that future distributions of relief materials be conducted in a more organized and decentralized manner, with adequate crowd control measures in place.

This may include establishing multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location; implementing a system to prioritize vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with disabilities; employing trained personnel to manage crowds, ensure orderly queues, and provide assistance to those in need; and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate the public on safety protocols during such events."