The FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force, swiftly intervened to manage the crowd of over 1,000 people who went to collect rice palliative, with about 10 people losing their lives in a deadly stampede that ensued. The tampede occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday, December 21, and has left the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in mourning.
The incident, which reportedly occurred during an early morning food distribution for vulnerable and elderly residents, claimed dozen lives, including four children, and left eight others injured.
According to the FCT Police Command, four of the injured victims have been discharged from the hospital, while others remain under medical care.
Reacting to the tragedy, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, visited the injured victims to offer support. In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh said “This incident underscores the need for strict adherence to public safety measures. We deeply sympathize with the families of the deceased and assure the public that such tragedies are preventable if proper protocols are observed.”
The Police Command has now mandated that all organizations, religious bodies, and individuals planning public gatherings or charitable activities in the FCT must notify the police in advance to allow for the deployment of adequate security measures.
“Failure to comply with this directive will result in liability for any incidents or loss of life caused by negligence,” SP Adeh warned.
The public is urged to collaborate with the Police and report emergencies to the FCT Control Room via 0803 200 3913 or 0806 032 1234.
