Nigeria: 17 Dead, 32 Injured at Anambra Christmas Rice Distribution Stampede
Annual charity event by Obijackson Foundation turns deadly as an uncontrollable crowd surges, leaving grief-stricken families and calls for better crowd control
- stampede during a Christmas rice distribution in Okija claimed 17 lives and left 32 injured
- The casualties, mostly women and youths, included pregnant women
- The tragedy highlights the need for improved crowd management at large-scale charitable event
A devastating stampede at Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State has left 17 people dead and 32 injured during the annual Christmas rice distribution organized by the Obijackson Foundation on Saturday.
The event, a long-standing tradition drawing residents from across Ihiala and neighboring communities, turned tragic as an uncontrollable crowd surged forward to collect the rice. Eyewitnesses reported that people, mostly women and youths, had gathered at the facility as early as 5 a.m., awaiting the start of the distribution.
Chaos ensued when the distribution began, leading to a deadly rush. Victims, including pregnant women, were transported to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala, where a viral video revealed heart-wrenching scenes of lifeless bodies and desperate attempts to revive unconscious individuals.
The state police command has yet to confirm the incident, but grieving relatives were seen mourning at the hospital. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for better crowd management at large-scale charitable events.
