Abuja Stampede Sparks FCT Police Guidelines for Safer Public Gatherings. (Photo/PT)
Nigeria (EPICSTORIAN) – The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has introduced strict guidelines for organizing public gatherings following a devastating stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, on December 21, 2024.
The tragedy, which occurred during food distribution to vulnerable individuals, claimed 10 lives, including four children, and left eight others injured.
FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, expressed the Command’s profound sorrow, stating, “This unfortunate incident highlights the critical need for proper safety measures at large gatherings to prevent avoidable tragedies.” She revealed that the injured victims are receiving medical care, with some already discharged.
In response to the incident, the FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and Joint Task Force successfully evacuated over a thousand people at the church premises. Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu visited the hospitalized victims, offering support to affected families.
Mandatory Guidelines for Event Organizers
To avoid similar tragedies, the FCT Police Command has mandated that all individuals, religious bodies, and organizations planning public events, charity activities, or large gatherings notify the police in advance. This measure, according to Adeh, will enable the deployment of adequate security arrangements to ensure public safety.
“Failure to comply will hold organizers accountable for any loss of life or injuries resulting from negligence,” she warned. The Command urged the public to cooperate fully by adhering to these directives and promptly reporting emergencies to the FCT Control Room.
Recurring Safety Concerns Across Nigeria
The Abuja incident mirrors similar tragedies in Ibadan, Oyo State, and Okija, Anambra State, where stampedes during poorly managed events also led to multiple fatalities, including children.
Also Read: Children’s Carnival Tragedy: Oyo Government Mourns Lives Lost in Ibadan Stampede
These events highlight recurring challenges in crowd management, insufficient security, and lack of emergency preparedness.
