16/01/2025
The victims of the tragic stampede that occurred on December 21, 2024, during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been laid to rest. The incident, which claimed the lives of 21 people, mostly women and children, happened before the palliative distribution organized by the Obijackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi. The inter-denominational burial service, held at St. Mary's Field, Okija, brought together families of the victims, survivors, community members, and notable personalities in a ceremony organized by the Okija community.
Bishop Rommy Nzomiwu of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Okija Zone, delivered a heartfelt sermon from Revelation 21:1-8, offering prayers for Godβs consolation for the bereaved families and the community. Similarly, Rt. Rev. Ralph Okafor, retired Bishop of Ihiala Diocese, urged the grieving families to find strength in God and move forward, referencing Psalms 23. The event also saw Chief Daniel Chukwudozie of Dozzy Group of Companies donating β¦10 million to the victimsβ families as a gesture of support.
Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi, founder of the Obijackson Foundation, expressed his condolences and reaffirmed the foundationβs commitment to human development despite the tragedy. He vowed to take decisive actions to prevent such incidents in the future and to continue supporting the Okija community. βThis tragedy will not deter us from serving the people of Okija,β he said, emphasizing the foundationβs 15-year legacy of philanthropy and its resolve to rebuild and strengthen the community.
The traditional ruler of Okija, Igwe Emeka Okezie, commended the foundation for its positive impact on the community and urged it to sustain its philanthropic activities. Some of the victims who spoke at the event expressed grief over the loss and prayed for the eternal rest of the deceased. The burial marked a moment of unity and reflection for the Okija community, with calls for resilience and renewed commitment to communal harmony.