Tragedy Strikes: Stampede in Nigeria’s Anambra State Claims 22 Lives
Fatal Incident in Okija
At least 22 people were killed in a stampede during a philanthropic initiative to distribute food items and vegetable oil to locals ahead of Christmas celebrations in Okija, a town in Nigeria’s southeastern state of Anambra, on Saturday, the police said on Sunday, as reported by Xinhua.
Investigation Underway
According to Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the police in Anambra, there were injured casualties receiving treatment at local hospitals, but he did not provide an exact figure. He confirmed that an investigation was underway on the incident.
Police Chief Warns Against Unorganized Distribution
Nigeria’s national police chief, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning against the unorganized "distribution of palliatives and funfairs", which have recently led to stampedes and fatalities among vulnerable citizens in the country. Egbetokun stated that the warning came in response to the increasing number of stampedes resulting in injuries and deaths, particularly during palliative distributions ahead of the Christmas celebration, describing them as "uncoordinated".
Recent Incidents
This is not the first time such a tragedy has occurred. On Wednesday, at least 35 people were killed and six critically injured in an earlier stampede during a children’s carnival in the southwestern city of Ibadan. Additionally, at least 10 people, including four children, were killed, while eight others sustained injuries in a separate stampede during a relief item distribution at a local church in the Maitama district of Abuja, the Nigerian capital.
President’s Plea
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called on state and local authorities to implement strict crowd control measures nationwide, following the fatal incidents. He urged local and state authorities to no longer tolerate operational lapses by organizations and corporate bodies involved in charitable and humanitarian activities.
Conclusion
The recent stampede in Okija, Anambra, highlights the need for improved crowd control measures and more organized distribution of palliatives and funfairs in Nigeria. The country’s authorities must take immediate action to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The loss of life is a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What caused the stampede in Okija, Anambra?
The cause of the stampede is still under investigation. - How many people were killed in the stampede?
At least 22 people were killed. - What is the reaction of the authorities to the incident?
The authorities have launched an investigation and are implementing crowd control measures nationwide.