A food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama turned deadly on Saturday as the stampede claimed 10 people, including four children, and injured eight others.
A statement signed by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP. Josephine Adeh, said the unfortunate incident occurred about 6:30 am when over 1,000 people surged forward to collect food items intended for the vulnerable and elderly.
Four of the injured victims have been treated and discharged, while the others continue to receive medical attention.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the Maitama General Hospital for further proceedings.
To prevent similar tragedies in the future, Adeh emphasized the importance of notifying the police command prior to hosting large events.
Organizers who fail to comply with this directive will be held accountable, she warned.
The statement said: “This unfortunate event, which took place around 6:30 am, resulted in a stampede that claimed the lives of 10 individuals, including four children, and left eight others with varying degrees of injuries.
“Four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims continue to receive medical care.
“The FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force have successfully evacuated the remaining crowd, which numbered over a thousand.
“The FCT Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to the injured.
“In a show of compassion and support, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has visited the victims in the hospital to offer assistance and reassurance during this difficult time.
“All organisations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals planning public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings in the FCT must notify the police command in advance.
“This notification is crucial for the deployment of adequate security measures to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable tragedies.
“Failure to comply with this directive will result in the organizers being held liable for any incidents or loss of life resulting from negligence.”
Persecondnews had reported a similar stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, on December 19, which claimed the lives of over 35 people, mostly children.
Also in March 2024, a similar rice distribution mishap had claimed the lives of students of Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
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