Falana Slams Elites Over Stampedes: ‘Disrespect For The Poor Is Unforgivable!

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has attributed recent stampedes across the country to widespread poverty and criminal negligence.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Over the past three days, at least 65 lives have been lost in stampedes during food distribution events in Anambra, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, more than 35 people, mostly children, tragically died on Wednesday during a carnival. On Saturday, 10 people lost their lives during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Maitama area of Abuja. Additionally, at least 22 fatalities were reported in the Ojika community of Anambra State during a rice and gift-sharing event.

In a statement on Sunday, Falana expressed his outrage over the incidents, describing them as a national tragedy and calling for justice for the victims.

“There is a sociological dimension to this national shame of recurrent stampedes caused by mass hunger,” Falana stated. “It reflects an unpardonable lack of respect for the dignity of the poor by members of the middle and upper classes involved in these acts of charity.”

Falana urged organizers of charitable events to prioritize decency and humanity when distributing food or cash to vulnerable individuals.

He also criticized the federal and state governments for their inadequate responses, which he said have been limited to condolence messages.

“Since the individuals whose criminal negligence led to these avoidable tragedies are part of the ruling class, the government has not taken sufficient action beyond expressing sympathy,” Falana added.

He announced that the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB) would mobilize lawyers to file civil suits, ensuring survivors and the families of the deceased receive adequate compensation.

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