Ndi Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area, on Friday stood still as the community held an inter-denominational funeral service to honour victims of stampede which occurred on the 21st of December, 2024.
Angel Network News (ANN) recall that
the stampede occurred during the
distribution of rice organised by a son of the town and philanthropist, Chief Earnest Obiejesi, also known as Obi Jackson which claimed more than twenty lives and many injured.
In his sermon at St. Mary’s School Field Okija, venue of the Church service, the Bishop of Ihiala Diocese of Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ralph Okafor, while consoling the families of the victims, urged the people to accept what had happened as a will of Almighty God.
Bishop Okafor urged the people to pray against any reoccurrence of the tragedy in the community. He also appealed to the Philanthropist not to allow the incident to discourage him from his continued service to humanity.
In his condolence speech, Chief Obiejesi expressed deep concern over the incident, assuring the community that comprehensive steps will be taken to prevent future occurrences.
Chief Obiejesi, while commending the Traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Emeka Nnamdi Okezie, for ensuring a peaceful service, described the stampede as the worst incident his foundation will ever witness since its inception.
According to him, despite the handiwork of the devil, I will not stop empowering my people. I will continue to provide for my people as long as my foundation exists.
“I have been providing this kind gesture for the past 15 years without such incident. I and my foundation will continue to empower the vulnerable families of Okija Kingdom.
In their reactions amidst tears, the families of the victims, pray to God to grant their departed ones eternal rest.
After the funeral service, families who were yet to bury their loved ones proceeded to lay their bodies to rest.
