President Muhammadu Buhari said Friday, he was shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic event that took the lives of several Nigerians at a football viewing centre in Calabar, Cross River State, Thursday night.
A statement by presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu said the President “commiserates with the government and people of Cross River State, and football fans nationwide over the unfortunate incident.
President Buhari commended the State Government for the prompt action in setting up a commission of inquiry into the incident, and its offer of assistance to the victims and their families.
The President also offered his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the mostly young victims, whose sudden demise is a big blow not only to their families, but also to the football-loving nation.
He prayed that God Almighty will grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and comfort all who mourn their irreparable loss.
Also, former Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress Atiku Abubakar has joined others in mourning the victims of Thursday night tragedy at which scores of ardent football fans were electrocuted while watching the Europa Champions League match between Manchester United and Anderlecht in Calabar, Cross River State.
In a press statement by his media office in Abuja on Friday, the former Vice President expressed his condolences to the families and friends of all those killed in the unfortunate incident.
“No one deserves to die in this way, particularly in the pursuit of their passion,” Atiku says.
The former Vice President while observing that viewing centres are springing up in every nook and cranny of the country to satisfy the demands of millions of football and other sports’ fans, said it is imperative that the relevant authorities ensure that these centres meet basic requirements of safety to the lives of the clients.
He urged governments at all levels to partner with non-governmental organisations and even well-meaning individuals in setting up cultural centres in communities, especially the most vulnerable for the relaxation, comfort and entertainment of citizens of those localities.
The Turakin Adamawa called on relevant authorities to investigate the tragedy that caused the death of these football enthusiasts to avert future occurrence.
Atiku Abubakar condoled with the bereaved families and the people and government of Cross River State and prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased.
