Falana urges Nigeria Govt to compensate families of Stampede Victims

Human right activist and lawyer, Femi Falana SAN, has urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of those involved in the recent stampedes in parts of the country.

Mr Falana stated this on Friday in Akure during a programme organised by the Ondo State Government themed “Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series” to honour the late governor.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the topic of the lecture was; “Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace Stability and Development” the Ondo state as an example.

Mr Falana blamed the Nigerian Police for the recent stampedes in Ibadan, Anambra and Abuja where over 65 persons died in the process of collecting palliatives.

According to him, the police failed to adequately protect people during the gatherings.

“It was failure of security, it’s not poverty that caused all the loss of lives.

“If there is any process, or gathering, they (Police) shall provide security,” the lawyer stated.

Mr Falana said that Ondo State has become a reference point for states in the country by ensuring peace in the state through the creation of Ondo State Security Network, named “Amotekun” by the late governor (Akeredolu).

He said Mr Akeredolu dared the Federal Government to create the state Amotekun which could be likened to a state police.

Mr Falana also said that the greatest tribute of the legacy of Akeredolu was the recent meeting by all the 36 State governors in Abuja with the Federal Government for the creation of state police.

“The greatest tribute that can be paid to Akeredolu since he passed on, has come from unexpected quarters.

“The President and governors recently met and approved the creation of state police in Nigeria”.

“That is the greatest tribute. Ondo State has exported the Amotekun phenomenal to Nigeria.

Later, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State said that it remained the number one legacy of Akeredolu, who made no mistake about who would succeed him.

Mr Aiyedatiwa said that his predecessor must be celebrated for his selfless service and fight for the advancement of democracy and rule of law in the country.

He said the state government rather than celebrate one year in office which coincided with the death of Akeredolu, chose to accord premium to his remembrance.

“Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the Rule of Law in our country.

“His leadership was not only marked by integrity, transparency and a deep understanding of the needs of our people, Akeredolu also implemented various initiatives geared towards transforming Ondo State,” he further reiterated.

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, commended Falana for always speaking for the masses and acknowledged the legacies of Akeredolu.

Also, Victor Olabimtan, a former Speaker of the House of Assembly and Chairman, SUBEB, lauded Aiyedatiwa for continuing the legacies and projects initiated by Akeredolu.