By Onwa Ekor
Cross River government has expressed sorrow over the reported loss of life following a stampede at an empowerment distribution centre in Ogoja local government area recently.
The government, in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on media and publicity to the governor, Linus Obogo, described the incident as painful and assured that it will be investigated transparently.
“We are deeply saddened and profoundly concerned by reports of this unfortunate incident.
“Our hearts go out to the families who may have lost loved ones,” the statement said.
The government said every life is precious and that the safety and welfare of citizens must remain paramount in public programmes, especially those designed to empower vulnerable persons.
It acknowledged public anxiety over the incident and assured residents that their concerns will not be dismissed.
“We recognise the public concern arising from this development. In moments of grief and uncertainty, government must demonstrate empathy and openness,” it added.
The government pledged an impartial investigation to establish the facts surrounding the incident and to strengthen safety measures at future empowerment exercises.
It appealed for calm and sensitivity towards affected families while urging restraint in public discourse.
It would be recalled that the Ogoja incident reportedly occurred during an empowerment programme, leading to a stampede with unconfirmed casualties.
