”When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others, look no further than Peter Obi,” – Presidency

The presidency on Monday, criticized Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General Election, over his remarks regarding the recent tragic stampedes that resulted in the loss of lives, including those of children, in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.

The criticism was shared by Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, through his X handle.

According to Dare, Obi’s remarks were indecent, stating, “When seeking someone who benefits from the misfortune of others or from confusion — what the Yoruba people describe as Aríje nínú Màdàrú — look no further than Peter Obi.

“His recent comments on the avoidable tragedies in Anambra and Oyo states lack statesmanship and decency, even as he clings to the fading echoes of his much-vaunted political victory. This attempt to score cheap political points falls flat.

“In times of unfortunate tragedy, leaders are expected to speak responsibly and offer support. President Tinubu cancelled all engagements, expressed profound sadness over the loss of lives, and ordered an immediate investigation. That is the way of true leadership. These incidents have highlighted critical issues that must be addressed.”

Dare emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to addressing the country’s economic challenges and improving the standard of living for ordinary Nigerians.

The PUNCH reported that around 40 children lost their lives in a stampede at a children’s fair in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday.

Similarly, on Saturday, a stampede during the distribution of rice and other palliatives at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, claimed 10 lives.

In another incident, at least 17 residents of Okija, Anambra State, reportedly died in a stampede over rice palliatives.

In his response to the tragedies on X, Obi attributed the stampedes to systemic failures in Nigeria. He voiced his concerns over the fact that despite the country’s abundant resources and fertile land, citizens are still dying from hunger.