The Presidency on Monday criticized Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, for his comments regarding the recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, which claimed over 77 lives, including those of children.
This was revealed by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, via his X handle.
Dare described Obi’s remarks as “indecent,” stating, “When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or from confusion — what the Yoruba people describe as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — look no further than Peter Obi.”
He further expressed that Obi’s comments on the tragic events in Anambra and Oyo lacked statesmanship and decency.
“His recent comments on the avoidable tragedies in Anambra and Oyo states lack statesmanship and decency, even as he clings to the fading echoes of his much-vaunted political victory.
This attempt to score cheap political points falls flat.”
Dare emphasized that in times of tragedy, leaders should offer responsible support, noting that President Tinubu had canceled all engagements, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, and ordered an immediate investigation into the incidents.
“That is the way of true leadership. These incidents have highlighted critical issues that must be addressed.”
Additionally, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rebuked the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for blaming President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the deaths resulting from the stampedes.
The APC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Felix Morka, called out the PDP for “callous political chicanery” at a time of national grief.
The APC regretted that instead of sympathizing with the victims, the PDP chose to politicize the situation by blaming the current administration.
Morka remarked, “It is grossly indecent, insensitive and despicable for the PDP to exploit these tragic incidents in a senseless attack against the administration that has devoted itself to fixing the ruins of nearly two decades of PDP administration.”
The APC also pointed out the inconsistency in the PDP’s criticisms, reminding them of the 2014 Nigerian Immigration Service recruitment stampede during their administration that led to several deaths.
“Nigerians have not forgotten the tragic stampede at the ill-fated Nigerian Immigration Service recruitment exercise in 2014 under the watch of the PDP administration, that left many desperate job seekers dead and scores injured.”
In the same vein, former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed his condolences for the victims of the stampedes, urging Nigerians to show compassion and support to the bereaved.
In his Christmas message, Jonathan said, “The unfortunate incidents have left all of us in shock and sorrow… I urge the authorities to provide the necessary support to the victims and ensure that measures are put in place to prevent such occurrences in the future.”
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, also spoke out, advising NGOs, charitable organizations, and individuals distributing palliative aid to collaborate with the government to prevent chaotic situations.
Abiodun remarked, “When private sector players, non-governmental organizations, and charities want to embark on such initiatives, they should try to work with the government.”
Governor Makinde of Oyo State expressed gratitude for Abiodun’s visit and highlighted the importance of cross-state collaboration, stating that both states would meet in the coming year to review and learn from each other.
