As written by Dr. Nawani Aboki, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State:
It is part of human nature to desire to do good for others, especially those with compassionate hearts. However, in the pursuit of such intentions, human actions can sometimes lead to sorrow and tragedy. Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, once cautioned me during my involvement in organizing youth tours across Nasarawa State. He warned that while parents may initially support such endeavors, any mishap could lead to severe backlash. Consequently, I halted nationwide tours for the youth in my organization.
Our humanity often tends to forget the good and dwell on the bad. This sentiment is starkly evident in the recent tragedy at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, where two students lost their lives, and 23 others sustained injuries in a stampede while attempting to access palliatives.
In a well-intentioned effort to alleviate the hardships faced by students in tertiary institutions across the state, regardless of their background, Governor Sule initiated the distribution of bags of rice to these institutions. This initiative, supervised personally by the Governor and his deputy, unfolded smoothly across all eight public tertiary institutions until the unfortunate events at the Nasarawa State University Keffi on Friday.
This marked the first instance of any Governor in the country recognizing the plight of students and taking proactive steps to address it. It emanated from a man with a compassionate heart, determined to uplift the underprivileged. However, amidst these noble intentions, the lurking presence of malevolence often manifests.
Nasarawa State University holds a special place in the Governor's heart. Over his nearly five years of service to Nasarawa State, he has transformed the university, elevating its status to that of a recognized institution in the country. Tragically, the imminent departure of the Vice Chancellor, who sought a peaceful conclusion to his tenure, was marred by this unforeseen calamity.
The tragedy unfolded as students, eager to benefit from the Governor's generosity, amassed in large numbers at the distribution venue before his arrival. The sheer force of the crowd overwhelmed the structures and security personnel, leading to the fatal stampede. It is a somber moment, and the state government extends its condolences to the bereaved families and the entire community.
The pertinent questions arise: what led to the failure in Keffi when similar initiatives succeeded elsewhere? Did the school administration neglect to ensure a secure distribution process? Why was there a congregation of all students in one location for distribution? What role did the security operatives play, and what were the healthcare provisions for emergencies? Gratefully, some students rallied to aid their peers amidst the chaos.
The Governor, deeply saddened by the loss, swiftly mobilized support for the injured. It is regrettable that his noble intentions were overshadowed by administrative lapses. How can one blame a government for its unprecedented foresight and commendable policy direction? Politics aside, we are all affected by this tragedy, whether in government or as citizens. We are all casualties, whether we are involved or not. So do not celebrate this tragedy.
Information suggests that certain malicious individuals, not necessarily students, infiltrated and orchestrated this calamitous event to sabotage a well-conceived initiative of goodwill. The state government has initiated efforts to identify the root causes of the stampede and prevent future occurrences, alongside providing assistance to the injured. Governor Sule, in his characteristic fashion, will extend support to the families of the deceased students and offer relief to the injured.
Despite this setback, the Government urges calm among all citizens as it endeavors to hold any perpetrators accountable. It is deeply saddened by the events but remains steadfast in its commitment to alleviate poverty's impact on the populace. Governor Sule's vision for Nasarawa State will prevail. May God grant solace to us all in this time of mourning. Amen
