President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday expressed sadness over the tragic death of some supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a stampede at his presidential campaign rally held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

According to a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Garba Shehu, Buhari condoled with the families and friends of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to all those who were injured.

He described the deaths as a needless loss of lives and an anti-climax to a highly successful outing in the oil city which could have been averted if there was an orderly exit from the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, venue of the rally.

“It is indeed a great tragedy that Nigerians who have important roles to play in shaping the future of the country and had come to see and hear from us how hard their government is working to build a Nigeria of their dreams, would meet their end in this unfortunate circumstance.

“I assure the people, with all sense of responsibility that the party and the government will do everything possible to ensure the well-being and safety of our citizens as they troop out to attend rallies and all other political events,” the statement said.

The president assured the government and people of Rivers State as well as the affected families of the Federal Government’s support and prayers during this difficult time.

He also prayed Almighty God to grant the victims eternal rest.