Okija Stampede Victims Laid to Rest Amid Tears and Prayers
The victims of the tragic stampede that occurred during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, were buried on Friday amidst sorrow and solemnity.
The stampede, which took place on December 21, 2024, claimed 22 lives during a palliative distribution event organized by a local philanthropist. The Anambra Police Command had confirmed the fatalities.
An inter-denominational burial service for the victims was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Field, Okija. The event drew families of the deceased, community members, and prominent figures from the area, who gathered to mourn the tragic loss.
Rev. Donald Chukwudolue, who led the service, called on God to console the grieving families and prayed for an end to such disasters. During his sermon, he cited Revelation 21:1-8 and 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.”
Chief Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, founder of the Obijackson Foundation, which organized the ill-fated event, expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and the Okija community. He pledged to learn from the tragedy and ensure safer practices in future humanitarian initiatives.
“This incident has strengthened our resolve to ensure that such tragedy will not occur again. Let this tragedy bring us closer and make us stronger as a community,” Azudialu-Obiejesi said.
The traditional ruler of Okija, Igwe Emeka Okezie, encouraged the foundation to continue its philanthropic efforts, emphasizing their positive impact on the community.
Grieving families and community members expressed deep sadness over the incident, praying for the eternal rest of the victims’ souls.
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