At least 3rd food distribution-related stampede in Nigeria in a week; several dead

Several people were killed or injured Saturday (December 21) in crowd stampedes during food distribution events in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, and in the southern town of Okija, according to the president’s office.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu cancelled all official events in Lagos, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, to honor the victims, his spokesman said in a statement.

Police reported that 10 people died in Abuja, including at least four children, and that “many others” were killed in Okija.

The Abuja incident occurred outside the Maitama Holy Trinity Catholic Church, where a food distribution drive for vulnerable and elderly people was taking place, police spokesperson Josephine Adeh said.

In Okija, chaotic crowds overwhelmed a community center distributing rice, according to Ngozi Echeazu, an official with the National Emergency Management Agency.

“In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones,” Tinubu said. “Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them.”

At least third incident this week

Earlier, on December 18, 2024, a devastating stampede took place at a holiday funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The event, held at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun district, was organised by the Women In Need Of Guidance and Support Foundation and aimed to provide financial assistance and food to children up to 13 years of age, Al Jazeera reported.

Over 5,000 children and family members attended, drawn by the promise of cash handouts and scholarships. The massive turnout led to a crowd surge, resulting in the deaths of 35 children and injuries to six others.

The exact sequence of events is under investigation, and several organisers have been arrested already.

With inputs from agencies