Tragedy struck at Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) as two students lost their lives in a stampede that occurred at the convocation square. The unfortunate incident took place during the distribution of palliatives to the students by the university authorities.
The state government had recently initiated a program to provide relief to students in tertiary institutions, handing out 2 bags of 7.5 kg rice and ₦5,000 to each student. Following this, the students were instructed to gather at the convocation square to receive their share of the palliatives.
However, chaos erupted on Friday morning as the distribution turned chaotic. In their haste to secure the much-needed relief items, the students forcefully entered the distribution area and began grabbing as many bags of rice as they could carry. This sudden surge of students resulted in a stampede, with many students being trampled upon in the frenzied rush.
Tragically, two students, a male, and a female, lost their lives in the tragic incident. Several other students sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the university community and has underscored the desperate situation faced by students amid the ongoing pandemic. Authorities are now being urged to improve the organization and safety measures surrounding the distribution of palliatives to prevent any future tragedies of this nature.
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