President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday afternoon expressed shock and sadness over the tragic death of over 30 Nigerians who were electrocuted at a football viewing centre in Calabar, Cross River State, on Thursday night.

Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity), said in a statement issued in Abuja: “The President commiserates with the government and people of Cross River State, and football fans nationwide over the unfortunate incident.

“President Buhari commends the State Government for the prompt action in setting up a commission of inquiry into the incident, and its offer of assistance to the victims and their families.

“The President offers his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the mostly young victims, whose sudden demise is a big blow not only to their families, but also to the football-loving nation.

“He prays that God Almighty will grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and comfort all who mourn their irreparable loss.”

The Cross River Government had earlier in the day said that it would foot the medical bills of hospitalised victims of the accident.

The Deputy Governor of the state, Prof. Ivara Esu, announced the gesture when he visited some of the victims at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).

The tragedy occurred at about 9:30 p.m. while the fans were watching a Europa Championship match between Manchester United and Anderlecth of Belgium, at a private viewing centre located at the Nyagasang area of Atimbo in Calabar Municipal Council Area. The electrocution was caused by fallen electricity poll.

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