U-Report: CD Demands N20m Compensation Each For Uke Dead Victims

Report By: Campaign For Democracy South-East Zone Publicity Arm

The Campaign for Democracy (CD) has urged Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, South-East Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to constitute a 7-man investigative committee to unravel the circumstances leading to the Holy Ghost Adoration Ministry, Uke tragedy.

The statement, which was issued to news reporters in Onitsha, was jointly signed by Dede Uzor A. Uzor and Dr Jerry Chukwuokolo, who are the Chairman and Secretary of CD South-East Region respectively.

It would be recalled that there was a stampede at Holy Ghost Adoration Centre, Uke in Idemili South LGA, which claimed at least 25 lives and over 50 persons sustained various degree of injuries.

The statement noted that the state government sponsoring an investigation would bias the outcome of the remote and immediate causes of the incident; which would further infuriate the minds of the public especially the Christian community.

``A tragedy that led to loss of more than 25 lives in a holy and safe place, which included a 6-month pregnant woman, Mrs Adaobi Onumonu (24), who is a corper currently serving at Onitsha High School, Onitsha; should not be swept under the carpet. Politicians should, henceforth, stop using churches and prayer grounds for their political campaigns and rallies in Anambra state in the interest of God and humanity,’’ CD warned.

The pro-democracy group however, urged Anambra state government to ensure free treatment for injured survivors of the tragedy; while due compensation should be paid to the families of the victims who lost their lives.

``Anambra state government should as a matter of necessity pay a minimum of N20 million to the families of each of the dead victims of the tragedy. The state government should also erect a lasting monument at the entrance of the Uke adoration ground as memorial for the souls lost. Also, Anambra state government should construct more than two roads leading to the adoration ground,’’ the statement further said.