May 30, 2022

Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development says her ministry has begun assessment of the weekend stampede in Rivers.

Mrs. Nneka Anibeze, the Special Assistant on Media to the minister, made this known in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

According to Farouq, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has moved to ensure an effective intervention concerning the victims.

Scores of worshippers reportedly died, while many others were injured during the stampede at a religious event held at the Port Harcourt Polo Club during a church programme.

The church programme titled: ‘Shop for Free’ was organised by a church to help the less-privileged receive gifts and other food items for free.

Farouq, who expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident, disclosed that NEMA was already on ground to assist in recovering bodies and taking survivors to hospital for treatment.

“Immediately we heard of the stampede, NEMA swung into action through the state SEMA and other immediate respondents including the police to rescue the injured and those trapped in the stampede.

“Efforts are being made to immediately provide relief for the injured after NEMA’s assessment.

“We thank other rescue agencies of the Federal Government, who assisted in rescue operations at the stampede site.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Rivers as well as families of the victims.

“We pray for the repose of the souls of the dead,” Farouq said. (NAN)