Federal Capital Territory minister Nyesom Wike has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to the people who sustained injuries during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

Mr Wike gave the directive in a statement on Saturday.

No fewer than 10 people, including children, lost their lives while 10 others sustained injuries in the stampede during the distribution of food items to less privileged and the elderly by the church.

The sad incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Mr Wike said the FCT Administration would ensure that the injured received adequate medical attention. 

The minister, who commiserated with the victims, also directed that henceforth, police permission should be obtained by individuals or organisations planning public distribution of palliatives, either food items or cash.

Describing the incident as “painful,” Mr Wike prayed for the repose of the souls of the lives that were lost and fortitude for their families to bear the irreparable loss.

He commended the police and other security agencies for their prompt intervention.

Meanwhile, the police have ordered organisations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals to notify the police when planning public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings in the territory.

In a statement by FCT spokeswoman Josephine Adeh, the police said failure to comply with the directive will result in the organisers being held liable for any incident or loss of life resulting from negligence.

(NAN)