The families of the 21 victims who lost their lives in the Christmas rice stampede in Okija, Anambra State, gathered on Friday for a solemn interdenominational burial service at St. Mary’s Field.

The tragic event, which claimed mostly women and children, occurred on 21 December 2024, during palliative distribution by Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi through his Obijackson Foundation.

The event was organised by the foundation in collaboration with the royal palace of Okija.

Very Rev. Donald Chukwudolue, during his sermon anchored on Revelation 21:1-8, prayed, “We ask God to wipe away every tear and console the families of the deceased.

"We pray such an accident will not occur in Okija again. Okija mourns, Anambra mourns, and Nigeria mourns.”

Rt. Ralph Okafor, Bishop of Ihiala Diocese, Anglican Communion, encouraged the families, saying, “Past is past, we must move on.”

Chief Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi expressed his condolences, stating, “Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to honour the memory of those we lost in the tragedy that happened on December 21 in the community.

"The foundation remains steadfast in its resolve to human development. Together, we will rebuild.”

The traditional ruler, Emeka Okezie, urged the foundation to continue its impactful community services, while Chief Daniel Chukwudozie, Chairman of Dozzy Group, donated N10 million to support the victims’ families.

The survivors called on God for solace as they mourned their loss.