Community Holds Mass Burial for Stampede Victims in Anambra
The remains of victims who died in a stampede which occurred at a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been buried.
No fewer than 21 people, mostly women and children reportedly lost their lives during the tragic incident that occurred on December 21, 2024, during the palliative distribution being donated by a notable member of the community, Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi, through his foundation, Obijackson Foundation.
The inter-denominational burial service for the victims held at St. Mary’s Field, Okija, on Friday, had families of the victims, survivors, community members, and other notable personalities of the community in attendance in the low-key event.
The event was organised by the Okija community.
During the service, the Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria Okija Zone, Bishop Rommy Nzomiwu who anchored his lesson from the book of Revelation 21:1-8, asked the Almighty God to console families of the dead and prayed that such would not occur again in the community.
Chukwudolue said, “We ask God to wipe away every tear and console the families of the deceased. We pray such an accident will not occur in Okija again. Okija mourns, Anambra mourns, and Nigeria mourns.
Nobody would hear such tragic news and not feel sober. Only the Lord can console those who lost their loved ones and we pray the Lord will continue to comfort the families of the victims.”
Source: Punch
