By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed deep grief on the tragic loss of lives in the stampede that occurred during a rice-sharing event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of the state on Saturday.

The Governor who expressed his sympathy in a statement by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime on Saturday night said: “I extend my 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.

“According to available information, the State Government acknowledged that the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organised the event with the noble intention of sharing relief materials with less privileged members of the community during this festive season.

“However, the resulting tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more structured and safer approach to distributing such palliative.”

He said that the Anambra State Government in its prompt action on the incident has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede, saying that government will work closely with relevant agencies to determine the root causes of this unfortunate event and ensure that any negligence or lapses in safety protocols are duly addressed.

According to Soludo, the State Government has also implored all well-meaning individuals and organisations engaged in charitable activities to prioritise the safety and well-being of beneficiaries.

He also advised that future distributions of relief materials be conducted in a more organised and decentralised manner, with adequate crowd control measures in place to liquidate chances of reoccurrence.

The Governor reeled out some measures that will aid easy distribution of such palliatives to include establishment of multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location; implementing a system to prioritise vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with disabilities.

Others are, 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.