President Bola Tinubu on Saturday canceled all his official events in Lagos State, where he is spending the Christmas holidays, following the tragic deaths of several Nigerians in stampedes in Abuja and Anambra State.

Reports indicate that the two incidents claimed numerous lives and left several others injured. In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed that ten bodies were recovered after a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, while many were hospitalized. Similarly, in Anambra State, a stampede during a rice distribution event in Okija led to the deaths of at least 20 residents.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sympathy for the families of the victims. He canceled his scheduled attendance at the Boat Regatta and other activities on the waterfront near his Oyinkan Abayomi Drive residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. Top Lagos State officials and white cap chiefs were already present at the venue when the President withdrew after being briefed on the tragedies.

Tinubu urged state and local authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures to prevent future occurrences. He noted the similarities between the stampedes in Abuja, Anambra, and an earlier incident in Ibadan, Oyo State, emphasizing the need for event organizers to ensure public safety.

The President also prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He reiterated the importance of adherence to safety protocols during public events to avoid such tragedies.