The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says it has begun an assessment of the stampede which happened in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital at the weekend.
No fewer than 31 people had lost their lives and many others injured during a “Shop for Free” event hosted by the King’s Assembly church to help the less privileged get gift items for free, at the Port Harcourt Polo Club.
A statement by the minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq said NEMA is proactive to assist in recovering bodies and taking survivors to hospital for treatment.
Farouq expressed sadness at the disaster and said NEMA swung into action immediately it heard of the stampede to rescue the injured and those trapped in the stampede.
“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 and send our heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Rivers state as well as families of the victims. We pray for the repose of the souls of the dead,” the statement partly read.
