From Wilson Okereke, Afikpo
Ebonyi State Governor Chief Francis Nwifuru has commiserated with the people of Oyo State, where about 40 children died in a stampede on Wednesday.
The governor expressed his condolences during the cancellation of the intended birthday celebrations of Oyo Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.
The event was being organised by the National Vice Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), South East Zone, Chief Ali Odefa.
“On behalf of the people of Ebonyi State, I want to offer our sincere condolence to the governor and the people of Oyo State over the tragic incident that had occurred. We usually say that we do not question God.
“Therefore, whenever such happens, what we owe the parents is prayers,” Nwifuru, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, said.
He, however, applauded the organisers for choosing Ebonyi State as the venue and requested that his government be notified of any new date for the event.
The supposed host, Odefa, said that the event, which would have been a merriment galore, was suddenly turned into soberness by the death of the children in Oyo State and urged the bereaved parents to take solace in the Lord.
“All of you know how prepared we are because a lot of you contributed greatly to make the event successful, but as it has turned out this way, we shall be cooperative.
“I had wanted to celebrate my friend and brother, the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, but for the stampede at Oyo through which 35 children died on the spot.
“Thus, as the whole people of Oyo State are in a painful mood, they cannot be mourning while we will be here dancing and rejoicing. There is a need to sympathise with them,” he explained.