The Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB) has expressed deep concern over the stampedes that claimed at least 105 lives in Nigeria between March 2022 and December 2024. The group has attributed these tragedies to criminal negligence and widespread poverty, vowing to mobilize legal action to ensure justice for survivors and the families of victims.
In a statement released on Sunday, Femi Falana SAN, ASCAB’s chairperson, described the victims as mostly poor and vulnerable citizens left disadvantaged by the country’s economic policies. He said the group is committed to mobilizing lawyers to pursue civil suits to secure compensation for the victims and their families.
Falana lamented that the stampedes, which occurred during the distribution of food and palliatives, were exacerbated by inadequate crowd control measures by security forces. He accused the ruling class of negligence, noting that while federal and state governments issued condolences, they have failed to take concrete steps to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
Chronology of Tragic Stampedes
The statement highlighted specific incidents, beginning with the May 22, 2022, stampede in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where over 30 people lost their lives during a crowded church charity event.
On March 22, 2024, a stampede at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, led to the deaths of two students and the hospitalization of 23 others during a palliative distribution at the university’s convocation square.
Similarly, on March 25, 2024, seven people, including an eight-year-old girl, died in Bauchi during a charity event organized by a businessman offering ₦5,000 to attendees. The victims included four adult women and three girls aged between eight and 55.
On April 7, 2024, nine individuals lost their lives in Sokoto during a stampede at the residence of a senator distributing palliatives.
The most recent tragedies occurred in December 2024. On December 19, 35 children died during a stampede at a Children’s Christmas Funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State. Two days later, on December 21, at least 10 people, including children, were killed during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, where palliatives were being distributed to over 3,000 attendees. On the same day, 12 people died in Okija, Anambra State, during a Christmas rice distribution event organized by a philanthropist.
Addressing Systemic Failures
ASCAB emphasized that these incidents reflect the failure of government and society to respect the dignity of the poor. Falana noted that these tragedies are preventable, provided aid is distributed with humanity and decency. He suggested that monetary aid could be transferred electronically to beneficiaries, avoiding the need for chaotic gatherings.
“Generosity can be extended to the poor with respect and dignity,” ASCAB said. The organization criticized the vulgar display of charity that humiliates the poor, calling for systemic reforms in how palliatives are distributed.
Redefining Palliatives
ASCAB also addressed misconceptions about palliatives, pointing out that they are meant to provide temporary relief rather than resolve underlying socio-economic issues. The group called for pro-people policies aimed at transforming the country’s economy and reducing poverty.
Demand for Accountability
Falana stressed the need to hold individuals responsible for the negligence that led to these tragedies. He accused the ruling class of offering nothing more than condolence messages, urging federal and state governments to take meaningful action.
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