Wike Orders Free Treatment for Maitama Stampede Victims

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to individuals injured in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

The directive was announced on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Mr. Lere Olayinka. The tragic incident occurred during the distribution of food to the elderly and less fortunate, leading to a rush that resulted in the death of at least ten people, including children, and injuries to another ten individuals.

Minister Wike assured the public that the FCT Administration would ensure the injured received adequate medical care. He expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, describing the event as heartbreaking.

He also announced new measures for public distributions of palliatives, stating that any individual or organization intending to distribute food or money in public must now obtain police approval to prevent similar incidents.

The Minister commended the swift response of the police and other security agencies, highlighting their role in managing the aftermath of the tragedy.

In his statement, Wike offered prayers for the repose of the deceased and strength for their families to endure the loss.