Tragedy struck in Nigeria as two separate stampedes resulted in significant loss of life. In Anambra, a stampede during a rice distribution event claimed the lives of at least 17 people. This devastating incident highlights the dangers of overcrowding and poor event management.¹
In a similar incident in Abuja, a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama resulted in 10 fatalities and left several others injured. The incident occurred on Saturday morning, and the cause of the stampede is still unclear.
At least 10 people have reportedly died, with many more injured in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.
Recall that only a few days ago, a similar incident had occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State, where a stampede at a children’s funfair resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children and left six others critically injured.
PUNCH Online gathered that the Saturday incident occurred when residents scrambled to receive palliatives distributed by the church.
The event, organised to provide relief to struggling residents, reportedly drew residents mostly from Mpape, Gishiri Village, and other nearby settlements.
As of the time of filing this report, our correspondent has not been able to reach the spokesperson for the FCT Emergency Management Department, Nkechi Isa, for further details.
However, eyewitnesses claim the incident occurred between 7 am and 8 am on Saturday when the crowd surged forward to receive the palliatives.
A stampede during the distribution of food items to vulnerable and elderly individuals at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, on Saturday has resulted in the deaths of ten worshipers and left eight others injured.
The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. and claimed the lives of ten people, including four children. Eight others sustained various degrees of injury.
Four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims continue to receive medical care.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed the incident, expressing sympathy with the families of the deceased and wishing a swift recovery to the injured.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the Police Command emphasized the need for organizers of public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings to notify the Police in advance. This measure is aimed at preventing similar unfortunate incidents in the future.
“This will allow the deployment of adequate security measures to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable tragedies.
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