Organising a charity event during the Christmas season involves much more than merely executing a series of tasks; it offers a profound opportunity for individuals and communities to come together to support a shared mission.
This festive time of year, traditionally associated with joy, goodwill, and generosity, empowers people to harness their collective energy, resources, and creativity to make a tangible and meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Many communities participate in various charitable initiatives during the Christmas season each year.
For instance, they collect food, clothing, and toys for local needy families, ensuring that no one goes without essential items during the holidays. Others volunteer at shelters, assisting in meal preparation, gift distribution, or providing companionship to those who may feel isolated and alone. These efforts not only provide financial support but also foster a spirit of community involvement, encouraging local businesses and individuals to collaborate for the greater good.
However, achieving impactful charitable work during Christmas can be challenging. For example, if charity events are poorly organised or lack clear direction, they may not only fail to meet their objectives but can also derail the very mission they set out to accomplish.
A poignant example occurred in Nigeria during the 2024 Christmas charity event in Abuja, Anambra, and Oyo states. Initially, there were hopes of spreading joy through charitable acts, including food distributions and various forms of support for the less fortunate. Sadly, these initiatives turned into horrific events, resulting in at least 67 fatalities over the past week, with a considerable number of victims being children.
The first tragic events unfolded in Ibadan, where a Christmas funfair organised by Queen Naomi, the former wife of the esteemed Ooni of Ife, aimed to celebrate with over 1,000 children at the renowned Islamic High School in the Bashorun district. Unfortunately, what was intended to be a joyful Christmas celebration turned into a calamity, resulting in the loss of approximately thirty-five young lives amidst the chaos.
As the nation still grappled with the tragedy of losing 35 future leaders, further distressing news emerged from Okija and even the seat of power. The stampede at Amamaranta Stadium in Okija resulted in 22 fatalities during a rice distribution event organised by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, through his Obijackson Foundation.
Additionally, in the Federal Capital Territory, a separate incident occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, where 10 lives were lost. This tragedy unfolded during a gathering at the church, attended by over 1,000 individuals seeking food and clothing to aid them in their time of need. It was a national tragedy of immense proportions. Many Nigerians began to demand answers regarding the events that unfolded. Were there no police officers on the scene? If law enforcement agencies were present, why did they allow 35 children to die in a single, devastating incident?
Observing Nigerians risking their lives for basic necessities and survival is profoundly disheartening. These tragic circumstances underscore a significant societal failure. However, amidst this, one positive element stands out—the sincere dedication of charity event organisers to effect meaningful change within the community.
For over a decade, Obijackson has been actively engaged in charitable efforts. A remarkable example of this commitment is the construction of Gonzaga Jesuit College, which he generously gifted to the Jesuits to enhance the educational opportunities available in the community. This gesture highlights his dedication to social betterment and illustrates the potential for philanthropy to create lasting change in the lives of the less fortunate.
However, the unfortunate events leading to unnecessary loss of life raise critical questions about the negligence of relevant government agencies. There has been a significant underestimation of the number of individuals attending these events in search of food. This oversight likely contributed to the conspicuous absence of police and adequate security measures, leading to chaos and tragedy. It is difficult to fathom how such a lapse in judgment could occur, especially considering the dire socioeconomic conditions prevalent in the country.
Additionally, it is worth noting that there is a growing societal expectation for free offerings, even in relative stability. Regardless of economic circumstances, many people may flock to these charity events out of habit or desire for communal participation. This tendency indicates that the allure of free sustenance transcends basic needs—if a charity event were organized today, we would likely witness an astonishing turnout. Even those who are adequately nourished might feel compelled to join in, further complicating the dynamics of these events and amplifying the challenges that organizers and local authorities face.
Unfortunately, the tragic history of stampedes in Nigeria is not a new phenomenon. Over the years, numerous stampedes have resulted in the loss of countless lives, often occurring during events that attract large crowds for charity or public celebrations. One of the most devastating incidents took place in 2010 in Lagos, where a stampede at the National Stadium during a free distribution of rice and other goods led to the deaths of more than 15 people.
This event, organised by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other organisations, aimed to assist vulnerable populations but descended into chaos due to inadequate crowd control measures. This incident underscored persistent issues such as insufficient planning, poor crowd management, and ineffective security personnel to handle the influx of attendees.
In 2013, a devastating stampede occurred in Port Harcourt during a charity event organised by the late Christian philanthropist Pastor Bimbo Odukoya’s Foundation. The event aimed to distribute gifts and food items to thousands of attendees who gathered in anticipation of receiving assistance. However, as the distribution began, the excitement and eagerness of the crowd quickly escalated into chaos.
In the scramble for provisions, the crowd surged forward uncontrollably, resulting in a tragic stampede that claimed the lives of several individuals. The lack of adequate crowd control measures exacerbated the situation. Overwhelmed by the sudden rush, organisers were ill-equipped to manage the throngs of people and were left to navigate the ensuing chaos with little support from the authorities. This regrettable incident highlights the critical importance of proper planning and safety protocols at significant public events to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
On March 15, 2014, Nigeria witnessed another heartbreaking tragedy when a stampede erupted during a nationwide recruitment exercise organised by the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). This event attracted an overwhelming number of job seekers, with thousands of individuals converging at various locations across the country, hoping to secure one of the limited job positions.
The sheer volume of attendees exceeded the facilities’ capacity, leading to severe overcrowding. As candidates rushed to enter the venues, chaos ensued, resulting in a stampede that tragically claimed the lives of at least 16 people and left many others injured. The incident highlighted the severe unemployment crisis gripping the nation, where countless individuals vied for scarce job opportunities. The recruitment drive became a stark reminder of the dangers posed by poorly organized events, particularly in a society where desperation for employment can drive significant crowds to gather.
In 2017, a tragic stampede unfolded in the Okadigbo community, located in Southeastern Nigeria, during a food distribution event organised by a prominent Nigerian billionaire. This philanthropic initiative, intended to assist the underprivileged, drew an unexpectedly large crowd, surpassing initial estimates. As the thousands of attendees anxiously awaited the distribution of food items, the atmosphere quickly shifted from anticipation to panic.
With limited security personnel on the ground to manage the crowd, the situation escalated as people rushed forward desperately to secure food. In the ensuing chaos, at least 10 individuals lost their lives, with many more injured. The heartbreaking loss was a grim reminder of the risks associated with large gatherings, particularly in areas where resources are scarce and the demand far outstrips the supply. The incident raised significant concerns about crowd management and public safety during humanitarian efforts, prompting discussions on how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
The 2024 series of unfortunate events has left a profound mark on our hearts and minds, compelling us to reflect deeply on the circumstances surrounding these incidents. While it is easy to point fingers at the organisers, attributing the chaos solely to their perceived failures in planning and preparedness, we must not forget to examine our own roles in contributing to the disorder.
As we traverse the intricate landscape of the 21st century, a pressing question emerges: Do we genuinely require a robust presence of law enforcement officers or an entire battalion of soldiers to ensure order at our gatherings and in public spaces? This inquiry not only highlights the expectations we place on external authorities but also invites us to critically assess our responsibilities as individuals and as a community in maintaining decorum and civility.
Dependence on external authorities or forces to maintain peace and order in our communities often points to deeper, underlying issues affecting our individual and collective mental and emotional well-being. When we lean on outside intervention for conflict resolution, it prompts a critical examination of our innate abilities to handle discord and address disputes constructively.
This reliance begs us to reflect on several fundamental questions: Do we have the skills to navigate conflicts with empathy and understanding? Are we emotionally resilient enough to engage in difficult conversations and seek mutually beneficial solutions? Moreover, can we foster a culture that encourages open dialogue and cooperation rather than one that defaults to requesting outside assistance in times of strife? Ultimately, this situation compels us to consider whether we can cultivate a sense of community responsibility, where individuals are empowered to resolve their differences independently, thereby strengthening our social fabric. Recognising these challenges can lead us to develop strategies that enhance our conflict resolution abilities and reinforce the value of collaboration within our neighborhoods. Embracing this journey also gives us a clearer understanding of our collective capacity for constructive engagement. It fosters an environment where peace is maintained through mutual understanding rather than external imposition.
Nigerians are never patient. While navigating the congested streets of Lagos, I found myself stuck in traffic at a T-junction, a situation that is all too familiar in this bustling metropolis. Instead of succumbing to the frustration that always accompanies such delays, I consciously remained calm and composed. I stopped completely, allowing the vehicles around me to pass. My goal was to promote a sense of order in the chaos, contributing to a smoother flow of traffic rather than exacerbating the already tangled situation.
As I sat patiently in my vehicle, the day’s oppressive heat mixing with the tension in the air, I observed the frantic behaviour of some drivers around me. One particularly impatient driver attempted to maneuver his way around my car, seeking to cut through the junction—an action that only served to worsen the gridlock. His bold move created a significant traffic backup that extended for hours, trapping countless drivers in an endless wait. After some time, I couldn’t help but address the impatient driver directly. I turned towards him and said, “Oga, can’t you just be patient for once? We could have moved forward by now if we had all chosen to wait.” He glanced back at me with a weary expression and replied, “Oga, patience don die for Lagos.” His words struck a chord, encapsulating a common sentiment among Nigerians: the relentless rush that often defines our daily lives. We frequently find ourselves caught in a cycle of urgency, where patience seems almost obsolete in the face of the ever-pressing demands of city life.
In Nigeria, how we conduct ourselves in public reflects our values and collective identity as a society. One particularly striking observation is that many individuals follow traffic regulations predominantly when traffic wardens are present. This pattern of selective compliance challenges our understanding of civic responsibility and raises essential questions about the underlying motivations behind our actions.
Moreover, even the most basic activities, such as queuing at banks or petrol stations, which should ideally embody order and respect for communal norms, often devolve into chaotic scenes unless there is a visible security presence to enforce the rules. It is not uncommon to see people cutting in line or disregarding established protocols entirely, demonstrating a reluctance to adhere to societal expectations without the watchful eyes of authority figures.
This dependence on external enforcers to uphold basic behavior standards compels us to examine our societal values more deeply. It invites us to ponder the validity of the assertion that “human beings are higher animals.” Are our actions genuinely reflective of a higher moral and ethical standing? Shouldn’t we strive to cultivate an inherent sense of order, respect, and mutual consideration, demonstrating these qualities naturally in our interactions rather than relying on enforcement mechanisms to guide our conduct? Ultimately, the aspiration should be to foster a culture where civility and adherence to norms come from genuine respect for one another rather than mere compliance born of fear of repercussions.
Therefore, rather than placing blame solely on individuals such as Queen Naomi, Chief Ernest Obiejesi, or the Catholic Church—who were involved in the charity events that sadly led to a stampede—we must shift our attention towards proactive and constructive solutions. Our objective should be to implement measures that will help prevent similar incidents in the future. I have noted a growing sentiment within the community advocating for the arrest and prosecution of individuals responsible for organising these events that have caused the stampede.
While I acknowledge and respect the need for accountability in these cases, it is equally crucial to extend this level of investigation to past organisers of similar events. To truly pursue justice, we must apply our standards fairly and consistently, irrespective of when the events in question took place. In calling for accountability among event organizers, I hope we can work towards establishing a comprehensive legal framework that ensures uniformity in how such cases are addressed.
This framework should prioritise the thorough investigation and potential prosecution of all parties involved in event organisation—regardless of their level of influence or status within the community. Therefore, past and present organisers should be subjected to the same legal scrutiny and potential consequences if negligence can be demonstrated. Furthermore, by fostering a culture of responsibility among event organisers, we can contribute to enhanced safety practices that benefit the entire community. This approach not only holds individuals accountable for their actions but also promotes an atmosphere where the safety and well-being of participants are the foremost priorities. Committing to this standard can save lives and prevent future tragedies while ensuring that justice is served equitably.
Hence, we call on organisers of charitable event to cultivate a shared culture of responsibility and respect that encompasses not only the event organizers but also the attendees and the broader community. To achieve this, we can implement several key strategies. First, we need to establish clear and comprehensive guidelines that outline the responsibilities of all parties involved in organising and attending such events. These guidelines should include specific protocols for crowd management, emergency procedures, and communication strategies to ensure everyone is informed of what to expect. Furthermore, enhancing crowd management strategies is paramount to ensuring the safety and smooth distribution of items. This can involve several key components.
Firstly, to provide comprehensive training for volunteers and staff on effective crowd control techniques, covering topics such as conflict resolution, emergency response protocols, and effective communication methods. Second, incorporating technology to monitor activities of the day. Real-time monitoring systems, such as surveillance cameras and crowd analytics software, can help assess crowd density, allowing for prompt adjustments to foot traffic as needed.
Moreover, the design of entry and exit points should be straightforward and well-marked, minimising confusion and bottlenecks. Clear signage, barriers to guide movement, and trained personnel at these points can facilitate orderly access and egress, ensuring that attendees can navigate the venue safely and efficiently. The Guardian Angel Catholic Police Chaplaincy, located in Lugbe, Abuja, demonstrated exceptional organisation and care in its recent community outreach initiative. To effectively manage the distribution of essential items to beneficiaries, it implemented a systematic ticketing process.
Each individual received a numbered ticket, which served as their entry pass to the church premises. This approach ensured that beneficiaries could only access the area to collect their items when their corresponding number was announced, thereby maintaining order and reducing chaos during the distribution event. The chaplaincy also took proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants by deploying trained security personnel throughout the premises. Their presence not only provided a sense of security but also allowed for prompt intervention in the event of any unforeseen issues or conflicts. The combination of a structured ticketing system and vigilant security measures highlights the chaplaincy’s commitment to serving the community effectively and safely.
Ensuring safety during charity distributions is crucial for protecting beneficiaries and organisers. Charity events often attract large crowds, which can create a variety of risks if not managed properly. The atmosphere can become charged with heightened emotions, as participants may be eager to receive aid and support. Additionally, logistical challenges such as crowd control, resource distribution, and event setup can further complicate the safety landscape. To effectively mitigate these risks, comprehensive safety measures must be implemented well before the event.
This includes conducting a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards associated with the venue and the expected number of attendees. Organisers should establish clear protocols for crowd management, including designated entry and exit points, to prevent bottlenecks and ensure the smooth flow of participants.
Furthermore, having trained volunteers or security personnel on-site can help maintain order and assist in emergencies. Communicating safety guidelines to all participants before the event is also beneficial, ensuring everyone knows how to navigate the distribution process respectfully and safely. The Guardian Angels Police Catholic Chaplaincy in Lugbe implemented the above safety measures that contributed to the success of their event. They held a well-organised charity event that not only achieved its goal of providing essential assistance but also ensured a respectful and secure environment for everyone involved.
Rev. Ma, S. J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He currently writes from the Kukah Center in Abuja, Nigeria.
