Human Rights Lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has blamed the Nigerian Police Force for the tragic deaths of 115 people during recent food stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija, Anambra State.

Speaking in Akure, the Ondo State capital, during a public lecture organized by the state government in memory of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Falana criticized the police for neglecting their constitutional duties. The lecture, titled "Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace, Stability, and Development: The Ondo State Example," was the first in a series honoring Akeredolu’s legacy.

Falana stated, “The deaths of 115 Nigerians in these incidents are unacceptable. The police failed to protect the people, and I hold them responsible. The government must compensate the families of the victims for this negligence.”

He called on the Nigerian government to address the root causes of social insecurity, citing high levels of poverty, unemployment, hunger, and illiteracy as critical factors. According to him, without social security, physical security—including the protection of lives and property—cannot be guaranteed.

Falana praised the late Governor Akeredolu for his efforts to enhance security in Ondo State, particularly through the establishment of the Amotekun Corps. He noted that Akeredolu’s initiative has made Ondo a model for security management in Nigeria.

“Today, all 36 state governors have approved state police, but Akeredolu laid the groundwork by legitimizing Amotekun. That single action has made Ondo State the most peaceful in Nigeria,” Falana said. He also stressed the importance of preserving Akeredolu’s legacy, stating that sustaining his achievements is the greatest tribute to his memory.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in his remarks, extolled Akeredolu’s contributions to security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He described his former boss as a courageous leader dedicated to the advancement of democracy and the rule of law.

“His administration’s achievements remain profound—roads, bridges, health centers, and education reforms that continue to inspire us. His passion for the security of lives and property has made Ondo State one of the safest in Nigeria,” Aiyedatiwa said. He pledged to continue Akeredolu’s vision of development and good governance.

In his welcome address, Afenifere chieftain and chairman of the occasion, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, lauded Akeredolu’s boldness in prioritizing security and development in Ondo State. He also commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the Amotekun initiative and urged continued efforts to uphold Akeredolu’s vision.

Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu served as the Governor of Ondo State from February 2017 until his death on December 26, 2023, in a German hospital after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. He was 67 years old.