A stampede occurred in Okija, Anambra State, resulting in the loss of lives of several individuals who had gathered to collect food items.
A prominent philanthropist in Okija offered food items to residents as Christmas gifts, attracting an overwhelming crowd. Unfortunately, the large number of people overwhelmed the event area, leading to a stampede that claimed the lives of mostly women, whose bodies were later evacuated to the morgue.
Just days ago, 35 children lost their lives in a stampede at a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State. Additionally, a stampede during food sharing in Abuja resulted in the loss of 10 lives.
Reacting to the reports, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the spokesperson of the state police command, released a statement saying, “Anambra State Police Operatives have taken over the scene in Okija where an alleged stampede occurred in the early hours of today, 21/12/2024, that led to some persons being fatally wounded.”
According to preliminary information, the philanthropist, who is a well-known figure in the Okiaja Community, had organized the event as part of his yearly schedule to share palliatives with members of the community.
However, before the event could commence, a large number of uncontrolled persons took over the event area, resulting in the stampede.
SP Ikenga Tochukwu assured that the police operatives have taken over the scene for proper investigation, although the details of the affected persons are still sketchy. The Anambra State government, through its Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aburime, has also confirmed the incident, stating that the government is monitoring the situation and will soon release a statement.
