The controversy surrounding the recent stampede in Edo has intensified as the Coalition for Rights and Public Protection (CRPP) has criticised comments made by former government spokesman, Kassim Afegbua.

The group accused Afegbua of making statements that could inflame public tension and distract from ongoing investigations into the tragic incident.

According to CRPP, discussions around the stampede should focus on accountability, crowd control failures, and measures to prevent a recurrence, rather than political exchanges.

The organisation also called on stakeholders in Edo State to exercise restraint and avoid politicising the tragedy, which reportedly led to multiple casualties during a public gathering.

Authorities are still reviewing the circumstances that led to the stampede, with officials promising a full investigation into the causes and response lapses.

In Edo, the incident has sparked widespread debate over event safety standards and emergency preparedness at large public gatherings.

The CRPP urged government agencies to strengthen safety regulations and ensure stricter enforcement at future events.