Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described the death of over 20 children during a Christmas funfair in Oyo State as a tragic reflection of Nigeria’s systemic failures.
In a post on X, Obi expressed heartbreak over the incident, where innocent children reportedly lost their lives in a stampede during what should have been a joyful celebration.
“The devastating news of innocent children trampled to death during a Christmas celebration in Ibadan is both heart-wrenching and a stark reflection of the systemic failures that plague our nation today. This tragedy, which occurred during what should have been a moment of joy, highlights the harsh realities of our society – a country where the scramble for basics such as food, drinks, and small gifts often leads to unimaginable sorrow,” Obi wrote.
Obi questioned how Nigeria had reached such a low point, where children—symbols of hope and the future—could lose their lives in the pursuit of something as simple as Christmas gifts.
He further stated that the tragedy exposes the deep inequalities, widespread poverty, and desperation afflicting the nation. Obi also pointed to failures in event planning, crowd control, and the fundamental duty to protect human lives as contributing factors.
“This tragedy calls for deep reflection and decisive action from leaders at all levels,” Obi emphasized. “We must prioritize policies that address poverty, inequality, and equitable resource access while ensuring the highest safety standards for public events, especially those involving children.”
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to commit to creating a society where such incidents become unthinkable.
“The measure of a nation’s greatness lies in its care for the vulnerable, and this moment should inspire us to create a safer, more inclusive Nigeria. We owe it to these children to ensure their deaths inspire lasting change,” he said.