The victims who lost their lives in the stampede during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra, were laid to rest on Friday.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed that 22 people died in the stampede that occurred on December 21, 2024, during the palliative event organized by a philanthropist in the area.
An inter-denominational burial service was held for the victims at St. Mary’s Field, Okija, with families of the victims, community members, and other distinguished individuals attending the event.
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Rev. Donald Chukwudolue, who led the service, prayed for God’s comfort for all who lost their loved ones and expressed hope that such an incident would never occur again in the community.
During his ministration, Chukwudolue, referencing Revelation 21:1-8, asked God to wipe away every tear and provide solace to the bereaved families.
He said, “We ask God to wipe away every tear and console the families of the deceased. We pray that such an accident will not happen again in Okija.
“Okija mourns, Anambra mourns, and Nigeria mourns. No one can hear such tragic news without feeling sorrow.
“Only the Lord can console those who have lost their loved ones, and we pray that the Lord will continue to comfort the victims’ families,” he added.
Chief Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, Founder of the Obijackson Foundation, while mourning the victims, expressed his gratitude to the traditional ruler of Okija, Igwe Emeka Okezie, and other community members for their support and compassion.
“Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to honor those we lost in the tragic incident on December 21 in the community.
“As the founder of the Obijackson Foundation, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Okija community for this unfortunate event.
“Our foundation remains committed to human development. This tragedy has strengthened our determination to prevent such an occurrence from happening again.
“Let this sorrow bring us closer and make us stronger as a community, encouraging us to move forward.
“This kind of tragedy could deter anyone from continuing humanitarian work, but we, as a foundation, are committed to doing everything within our power to ensure Okija never faces such a calamity again,” Azudialu-Obiejesi stated.
Igwe Okezie, the traditional ruler of Okija, in his address, encouraged the foundation to continue its philanthropic efforts, acknowledging the positive impact they have had on the community and its people.
Some victims who spoke at the ceremony expressed their sorrow over the tragic event and prayed for eternal rest for the souls of the deceased.
Crediblenewsng.com
