Victims who died in a stampede that occurred during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been buried.
No fewer than 21 people, mostly women and children, reportedly lost their lives during the tragic incident that occurred on December 21, 2024 during the palliative distribution by a notable member of the community, Chief Ernest Obiejesi, through his foundation, Obijackson Foundation.
The inter-denominational burial service for the victims held at St Mary’s Field, Okija, yesterday, had families of the victims, survivors, community members and other notable personalities in attendance at the low-key event.
The event was organised by Obijackson Foundation, alongside the royal palace of Okija community.
During the service, Very Reverend Donald Chukwudolue, who anchored his lesson from the book of Revelation 21:1-8, asked God to console everybody who lost their loved ones and prayed that such would not occur again in the community.
Chukwudolue said, “We ask God to wipe away every tear and console the families of the deceased. We pray such an 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.”
During his sermon, the Bishop of Ihiala Diocese, Anglican Communion, Ralph Okafor, who read from the book of Psalm 23, urged the families of the victims to move and continue to look to God for consolation, saying, “Past is past, we must move on.”
While mourning the victims, the Founder of Obijackson Foundation, Chief Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, thanked the traditional ruler and other members of the community for their support and show of love.
Azudialu-Obiejesi said, “Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to honour the memory of those we lost in the tragedy that happened on December 21, 2024 in the community. I, as the founder of Obijackson Foundation, sincerely express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Okija community.
“The foundation remains steadfast in its resolve to human development, this incident has strengthened our resolve to ensure that such tragedy does not occur again. Let this tragedy bring us closer and make us stronger as a community to forge ahead.
“This kind of tragedy can deter you from engaging in service, but we , are going to continue to ensure that we do everything that God has empowered us to do, so that Okija never suffers this kind of calamity again.
“We are humbled and reminded of the importance of doing good. We are taking decisive actions to serve Okija people. Together, we will rebuild, together, we will make Okija a safer place where you will always eat and remember your brothers and sisters.
“Obijackson Foundation will continue to do good. As the founder of the foundation, we have done this for 15 years and I assure you that we will continue to bring succour and love to Okija. May all those families that lost their loved ones continue to relate and we will support them with the things they deserve.”
In his speech, the traditional ruler of the community, Emeka Okezie, urged the foundation to continue with its philanthropic gestures, as it has impacted positively on the community and the lives of the people.
Okezie urged Azudialu-Obiejesi to continue in his community service and impact on lives and not to be discouraged by the unfortunate incident.
The Chairman of Dozzy Group of Companies, Chief Daniel Chukwudozie, consoled the victims and donated N10 million to them.
Some of the victims, who spoke at the event, expressed sadness over what happened and called on the Almighty God to grant the souls of the deceased eternal rest.
