The chaos reportedly erupted as residents gathered in large numbers to receive the donated items. The ensuing stampede left 22 people dead and several others injured.
Okija, Anambra – Tragedy struck in Okija, a community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, as a stampede claimed the lives of 22 people during a charity event on Saturday.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga. The stampede occurred during the distribution of bags of rice organized by the Obijackson Foundation, a philanthropic initiative established by businessman Ernest Obiejesi, popularly known as Obijackson.
The chaos reportedly erupted as residents gathered in large numbers to receive the donated items. The ensuing stampede left 22 people dead and several others injured.
The State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, visited the hospital where the injured were receiving treatment and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased.
“Regrettably, 22 people lost their lives in the tragic stampede that occurred on December 21, 2024, in Okija,” the commissioner said. He assured the public that an investigation into the incident is underway to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
In his statement, DSP Ikenga reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to public safety, crime prevention, and community security.
The injured are currently receiving medical attention, though the exact number and nature of injuries remain undisclosed.
The police urged residents to remain calm and assured them that measures are being taken to address the situation.
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