The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of 22 individuals during a stampede at a rice distribution event in Ihiala Local Government Area on Saturday.
The incident has plunged the state into mourning, with authorities and residents grappling with the devastating loss.
Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, disclosed the casualty figure after visiting a hospital where several injured victims are receiving treatment. Offering his condolences to the bereaved families, the CP wished the injured a swift recovery.
Speaking through the command’s spokesperson, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the commissioner assured the public of an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede. “The command remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ndi Anambra through crime prevention, prompt emergency responses, and protection of vulnerable populations,” Tochukwu stated.
Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, also expressed profound sadness over the incident. In a statement by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Soludo extended condolences to the families of the deceased, many of whom included women, children, and the elderly.
According to the statement, the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, had organised the rice distribution as a gesture of goodwill for the less privileged during the festive season. Governor Soludo acknowledged the foundation’s noble intent but highlighted the tragedy as a stark reminder of the need for structured and safer distribution mechanisms.
“The Anambra State Government has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede,” the governor noted. “We will work with relevant agencies to identify any lapses in safety protocols and address them appropriately.”
Governor Soludo also urged individuals and organisations engaging in charitable activities to prioritise safety. He recommended measures such as decentralising distribution points, implementing crowd control systems, and providing public education on safety protocols during such events.
“This method may include establishing multiple distribution points within the community to reduce overcrowding at a single location; implementing a system to prioritize vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities; employing trained personnel to manage crowds, ensure orderly queues, and provide assistance to those in need,” Soludo stated.
The tragedy accentuates the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in organising large-scale charitable events to prevent future occurrences.
