Tragedy struck on Saturday morning as 27 people were reportedly killed and several others injured in stampedes during the distribution of Christmas palliatives in Abuja and Anambra State. The incidents occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and at Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Details of the Abuja Incident
In Abuja, the event was organized by the Holy Trinity Catholic Church to provide relief to struggling residents, primarily from Mpape, Gishiri, and other nearby settlements. According to eyewitnesses, the stampede happened between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. when the crowd surged forward to collect rice and other items being distributed.
Anambra State Stampede
In Anambra, the Obijackson Foundation, known for its annual Christmas charity drives, was distributing palliatives at Okija. Residents from Ihiala and neighboring communities reportedly arrived as early as 5 a.m., awaiting the distribution. Chaos ensued once the process began, leading to a deadly rush.
Victims, mostly women and youths, were rushed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala. A viral video from the scene showed lifeless bodies, including those of pregnant women, around the hospital mortuary. It also captured chaotic moments of people attempting to revive unconscious individuals.
Earlier Tragedy in Ibadan
This heartbreaking incident follows a similar tragedy in Ibadan, Oyo State, just days earlier. A stampede at a children’s funfair held at the Islamic High School in Bashorun left at least 35 children dead and six others critically injured. The event, attended by over 5,000 children, turned fatal when attendees scrambled to collect food and gifts.
Reactions and Investigations
The Anambra State Police Command is yet to release an official statement on the Okija tragedy, but distraught relatives of the victims were seen mourning at the hospital.
