The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede that took place at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday.
The incident resulted in the loss of 10 lives, including those of children, during a palliative distribution event at the church.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Archbishop conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and extended sympathy to those affected.
He referred to the event as “a devastating blow” to both the parish and the broader church community.
He acknowledged that the charity event, which was organized by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, was intended to demonstrate the church’s unwavering commitment to “serving the least among us.”
The Archbishop also offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for the swift recovery of those injured.
The statement read, “It is with profound shock and sadness that I, on behalf of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, mourn the tragic loss of lives and those injured at the St Vincent de Paul Society’s food-sharing event at Holy Trinity Parish, Maitama, Abuja.
“This great tragedy, which claimed the lives of over ten people, is a devastating blow to our community. The St Vincent de Paul Society’s selfless efforts to support the poor and vulnerable in our midst are a testament to the Catholic Church’s commitment to serving the least among us.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and injured. May God grant them the strength and comfort they need during this difficult time.
“Let us come together as a community to pray for the souls of the departed, for the healing of the injured, and for the consolation of all those affected by this tragedy.
“Please join me in praying for the eternal repose of the souls of the faithful departed and the healing of the injured.”
