The recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja resulted in the tragic loss of over 77 lives, including children, and have sparked a political backlash. The Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) criticized Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, for his comments on the tragedies. Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, labeled Obi’s remarks as indecent and exploitative, accusing him of using the misfortune of others for political gain.

In response to the incidents, President Tinubu canceled his scheduled activities and expressed deep sorrow, instructing an immediate investigation into the events. The APC defended the administration’s response, emphasizing that leaders should provide support during such crises rather than engage in blame.

Furthermore, the APC condemned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for politicizing the tragedies by blaming the Tinubu administration. Barrister Felix Morka, the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, criticized the PDP for their lack of empathy, stating that the focus should be on mourning the victims rather than exploiting their grief.

The APC highlighted its efforts under Tinubu’s leadership in areas such as alternative energy, humanitarian programs, and salary increases for workers. They contrasted this with the PDP’s history of poor governance, pointing to past tragedies under their administration as a reminder of their failures.

In conclusion, the APC expressed its condolences to the families affected by the stampedes, wishing the injured a speedy recovery, while former President Goodluck Jonathan called for collective support for the victims.