Olayiwola Oshunrinade

Casualties of the stampede at the venue of rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State have been laid to rest.

They were buried on Friday in the town after an inter-denominational burial service was held at the St. Mary’s Field, Okija.

The 21 casualties, who were mostly women and children died during a stampede that happened on December 21, 2024 at the venue of palliatives distribution organised by a notable member of the community, Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi.

At the burial service, families of the casualties, survivors of the stampede and residents of the community were in attendance.

It would be recalled that the distribution of the palliatives was organised by Chief Obiejesi through his foundation, the Obijackson Foundation.

But the stampede occurred before the distribution of the palliatives could start.

Bishop Rommy Nzomiwu, Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Okija Zone, delivered the sermon.

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He said: “We ask God to wipe away every tears and console the families of the deceased. We pray such 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.”

The Chairman of Dozzy Group of Companies, Chief Daniel Chukwudozie, donated the sum of N10million to families of casualties and survivors.

The founder of the Foundation, Azudialu-Obiejesi attended the burial service.