The victims of the tragic stampede that occurred during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been laid to rest.
The incident, which took place on December 21, 2024, claimed the lives of at least 21 people, primarily women and children, during a palliative distribution organised by Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi through his Obijackson Foundation.
An inter-denominational burial service was held on Friday at St. Mary’s Field, Okija, with families of the victims, survivors, community members, and other dignitaries in attendance. The event, though low-key, was organised by the Obijackson Foundation in collaboration with the royal palace of Okija.
During the service, the Very Rev. Donald Chukwudolue led the congregation in a prayer, urging God to console those who had lost loved ones and asking for divine intervention to prevent such a tragedy from occurring again.
He quoted from the Book of Revelation 21:1-8, stating, “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.”
The Bishop of Ihiala Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Ralph Okafor, also delivered a sermon based on Psalms 23, encouraging the bereaved families to find solace in their faith. “The past is past, we must move on,” he urged, offering his condolences and support.
The founder of the Obijackson Foundation, Chief Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, expressed his deep sorrow for the tragic loss and thanked the community for their support. “Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to honour the memory of those we lost in the tragedy. I sincerely express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Okija community,” Azudialu-Obiejesi said.
He reaffirmed his foundation’s commitment to human development, vowing to work towards preventing such incidents in the future. “This incident has strengthened our resolve to ensure that no such tragedy will occur again. Let this bring us closer as a community, and we will continue to serve Okija with the same dedication we always have.”
The traditional ruler of Okija, Emeka Okezie, also offered his condolences and urged the Obijackson Foundation to continue its philanthropic work, which has had a positive impact on the community. “Do not be discouraged by this unfortunate incident,” Okezie advised.
In a show of support, Chief Daniel Chukwudozie, Chairman of Dozzy Group of Companies, donated a generous sum of N10 million to the victims’ families.
Some of the victims, who attended the service, expressed their grief and called on God to grant the souls of the departed eternal rest. The service concluded with the community coming together in remembrance of those lost, united in their shared sorrow and commitment to moving forward.
As the community mourns the loss, there is a renewed resolve to ensure that Okija remains a place of unity, safety, and continued support for one another.
