Kehinde Fajobi
The Anambra State Police have confirmed that 22 people died in a stampede on Saturday during a rice distribution event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Sunday, said the tragic incident occurred during the sharing of rice by the Obijackson Foundation, a philanthropic initiative led by entrepreneur Ernest Obiejesi, popularly known as Obijackson.
According to Ikenga, State Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Obono visited the hospital where victims were taken and confirmed the casualty figure.
He noted that several others sustained injuries, although specific details were not provided.
The police chief expressed condolences to the families and friends of the deceased while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Obono assured residents that the police are investigating the “unfortunate incident” and remain committed to protecting lives and fostering community safety.
“The Police Command remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ndi Anambra through crime prevention, prompt response to emergencies, and the protection of vulnerable populations,” he said.
The stampede in Okija occurred on the same day as another in Abuja, where 10 people died during a church palliative distribution.
It also follows Wednesday’s tragic carnival stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 people, mostly children.