Falana urges Nigerian govt to compensate families of stampede victims

A human rights activist, Femi Falana (SAN), on Friday urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of those involved in the recent stampedes in parts of the country.

He made the call in Akure during the Rotimi Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series put together by the Ondo State government to honour the late former governor.

Falana blamed the police for the recent stampedes in Ibadan, Anambra, and Abuja where over 65 persons died while collecting palliatives.

He lamented that the police failed to adequately protect people at the gatherings.

The lawyer said: “It was failure of security, it’s not poverty that caused all the loss of lives.

“If there is any process or gathering, they (police) shall provide security.”

Falana said that Ondo State has become a reference point for states in the country due to the creation of a security network codenamed Amotekun by Akeredolu.

He said the late former governor dared the Federal Government to create the Amotekun which could be likened to a state police.

He commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for sustaining his boss’ legacies.

Falana said: “The greatest tribute that can be paid to Akeredolu since he passed on has come from unexpected quarters.

READ ALSO: Food stampedes show govt is detached from ordinary Nigerians —Ezekwesili

“The president and governors recently met and approved the creation of state police in Nigeria.

“That is the greatest tribute. Ondo State has exported the Amotekun phenomenal to Nigeria.”

In his remark, Governor Aiyedatiwa said he remained the number one legacy of Akeredolu who made no mistake about who to succeed him.

He said his predecessor would be celebrated for his selfless service and fight for the advancement of democracy and the rule of law in the country.

“Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the rule of Law in our country.

“His leadership was not only marked by integrity, transparency, and a deep understanding of the needs of our people. Akeredolu also implemented various initiatives geared towards transforming Ondo State,” he said.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now