Abuja: A tragic turn of events unfolded in Nigeria as two Christmas charity events resulted in stampedes, leaving 32 people dead and many others injured. The victims, including children, collapsed during desperate crowd surges for food and essentials amidst a worsening economic crisis.
Stampede in Anambra State
In southeastern Nigeria, 22 people lost their lives in Okija town, Anambra State, during a food distribution event organized by a philanthropist. The chaotic surge for supplies overwhelmed the crowd, leading to fatal consequences.
Abuja Charity Event Turns Deadly
In the capital city of Abuja, another tragic stampede occurred during a charity event held by the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, a high-end neighborhood. Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh reported that over 1,000 people were evacuated from the scene. Despite efforts to control the situation, ten people lost their lives. Videos from the location revealed lifeless bodies and anguished cries for help, highlighting the devastating aftermath.
Efforts to Aid the Injured
Many of the injured were promptly taken to medical facilities for treatment, with some already discharged. However, others remain hospitalized, receiving necessary care. This marks the second major stampede in Nigeria within a week, shedding light on the risks associated with large-scale charity events during the holiday season.
Nationwide Concerns Over Safety Measures
The tragedies have sparked nationwide debates on the safety of such events, especially amid Nigeria’s dire economic struggles. Earlier in the week, a similar event in Oyo State claimed the lives of several children during a funfair organized by a local foundation.
In response to the growing concerns, Nigerian police have mandated prior approval for hosting charity events to ensure adequate safety measures are in place.
Government's Response to the Crisis
Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed deep sorrow over the incidents, describing them as a national tragedy. He assured that the federal government would extend support to the affected families. Shettima also emphasized the importance of preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future and directed relevant agencies to provide immediate aid to those impacted.
Economic Struggles Underpin the Crisis The stampedes come amid Nigeria’s worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, inflation has soared to a 28-year high, while policies have further devalued the local currency. These economic pressures have intensified frustration among citizens, leading to protests and a desperate scramble for essential goods at charity events.