A stampede in Okija town, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state, has claimed the lives of at least 12 people, with over 32 others injured.The incident occurred during a Christmas rice distribution event organized by philanthropist Chief Earnest Obiejesi, also known as Obi Jackson.
It is estimated that over 32 people sustained various degrees of injury in the stampede caused by the distribution of rice.The distribution of food items has always been an annual tradition for philanthropist Obiejesi during most festive seasons. A son of the town, Uchenna, said the crowd’s behavior, not Obi Jackson, caused the deaths. Mrs. Maria Okonkwo described the scene as overwhelming, with people shouting and the organizers trying to control the crowd.
Efforts to contact the event organizers were unsuccessful, as none of them answered their calls. The Anambra Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, issued a statement confirming the incident. According to Ikenga, preliminary information reveals that a large, uncontrolled crowd took over the event area, resulting in the stampede.
Although the details of the affected persons are still sketchy, police operatives have taken control of the scene for a proper investigation. Ikenga added that further details would be communicated, and the police would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of crowd control and safety measures during large events.
