Abuja Stampede; police arrest Catholic priest, other church officials

Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command have arrested the parish priest and officials of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja over the recent stampede that claimed the lives of at least 10 persons.

The police had confirmed that about 10 persons, including children were killed during the fatal stampede that happened in Maitama, Abuja.

When contacted on Thursday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh in an interview confirmed the arrests.

The PPRO said the command “invited key individuals involved in organizing the distribution of palliatives for questioning”.

According to her, the arrest was to gain a better understanding of the circumstances that led to this unfortunate incident”, stating that after their initial questioning, “they were allowed to return home, as our investigation into the matter is ongoing”.

SP Josephine explained that an “invitation regarding a tragedy of this magnitude is not out of place”, stressing that the command is addressing the loss of human lives, “which, in religious and moral belief, are sacred”.

The PPRO further clarified that allegations suggesting that the command is attempting to “demonize the Church’s almsgiving or humanitarian efforts are entirely baseless and disappointing”, adding that the arrests were “motivated solely by the need to uncover the truth and ensure accountability where necessary”.

“As our investigation progresses, it is possible that those who were previously invited may be called back for further questioning if deemed necessary.

“We remain committed to conducting a thorough and impartial inquiry into this matter,” the PPRO added.