As victims of stampede are buried, Obiejesi vows to continue to helping poor people

Renowned businessman and philanthropist, Mr Ernest Azudialo Obiejesi also known as Obi Jackson has said that the incident of stampede which happened during a rice distribution exercise in Anambra State will not stop him from helping the poor.

Recall that during an event on the morning of 21 December, where Obiejesi’s foundation, Obi Jackson Foundation was distributing bags rice as Christmas gifts to people from his community, a stampede occurred, claiming the lives of 21 persons.

But Obiejesi who spoke on Friday at St. Mary’s School Field, Okija during an interdenominational service in honour of the victims, said he will continue to support the families of the victims.

He said: “I am pained by the development, but I want to promise to continue to support the families of the victims.

“Despite the handiwork of the devil, I will not stop empowering my people. I will continue to provide for my people as long as my foundation exists.

“I have been providing this kind gesture for the past 15 years without such incident. I and my foundation will continue to empower vulnerable families of Okija Kingdom.”

He commended the traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Emeka Nnamdi Okezie, for ensuring a peaceful service, while describing the stampede as the worst incident his foundation will ever witness since its inception.

Earlier, the Bishop of Ihiala Diocese of Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ralph Okafor, while delivering his sermon consoled the families of the victims, urging them to accept what has happened as the will of Almighty God.

He urged the people to pray against any reoccurrence of the tragedy in the community, while appealing to the philanthropist not to allow the incident discourage him from his continues service to humanity.

Meanwhile, THE RAZOR reports that there was wailing and uncontrollable tears at the venue of the service as members of the families of the victims mourned their loved ones.