“You can imagine the pains of these philanthropists, they had wanted to bring joy to these families and it ended in pains. It is just unimaginable.
By Ebere Agozie
Mr Afam Okeke, the immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja (Unity Bar), has urged well-meaning Nigerians not to be discouraged in doing good because of the recent tragedies recorded during the sharing of palliatives.
Okeke made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday.
NAN recalls that there were stampedes in Abuja, Ibadan, and Okija during the distribution of giveaways by individuals and groups.
He said that the stampedes that happened when good-spirited individuals wanted to bring smiles to their fellow Nigerians could discourage others from doing so.
“You can imagine the pains of these philanthropists, they had wanted to bring joy to these families and it ended in pains. It is just unimaginable.
“Many people would have suspended their planned initiatives to take time to re-strategise just to avoid being tagged with such stories.
“There is hardship and hunger in the land and people who would have benefited in this season of love sharing might have to wait for God knows how long.’’
He, therefore, called on good-spirited Nigerians to come out en mass and show love to others to alleviate the pains that people are passing through.
“It’s not easy right now for those involved, but we should not be weary in doing good, let’s support and encourage them at this trying moment and not play blame games.
“I would like to take this moment to express my heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones in the recent stampedes.
“I also pray for the swift recovery of the victims currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.
“May the souls of those who died in the unfortunate incidents find eternal rest,” Okeke said.
He extended his warmest Christmas greetings to all Christians.
“As we embrace the joy of the Christmas season, let us spread love to the sick, the needy, and the less fortunate among us in keeping with the true spirit of the season.
“We should embody the values of love, kindness, and goodwill during this season and beyond.
“We should not despair but look forward to the year 2025 with greater hope of better days and years ahead,’’ he further said.