Deaths recorded at APC presidential rally in Taraba

At least two persons were killed during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally in Jalingo, Taraba state, on Thursday.

Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, who confirmed the incident, said the deaths were caused by overcrowding at the Jolly Nyame stadium where the rally held.

In a statement, President Muhammadu Buhari expressed sadness over the incident,  saying he wished they were alive to “witness the dividends of purposeful governance” if and when he is re-elected.

“I always feel very sad and distressed when ordinary Nigerians who love me and our party because of what we stand for and have done, make personal sacrifices by taking the pains to show their support, end their lives tragically,” Buhari said.

“I want them to stay alive and witness the dividends of purposeful governance that the APC administration will unfold when they renew our mandate.”

While appreciating the massive support he has received from all over the country, Buhari called for restraint on the part of his supporters to avoid a repeat of the tragic, and improved crowd management at rally grounds.

He prayed to God to grant peace to the souls of the departed and speedy recovery to the injured.