At least 20 residents of Okija, a community in Anambra State, lost their lives in a tragic stampede on Saturday. The unfortunate incident occurred during a rice distribution event, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Videos shared on social media captured heart-wrenching scenes of lifeless bodies lying on the ground as panicked residents tried to assist the injured. The somber visuals have sparked widespread grief and concern across the state and beyond.
Charles Aburime, the Chief Press Secretary to the Anambra State Governor, confirmed the incident. He assured the public that the state government is closely monitoring the situation and promised an official statement soon.
“This is a heartbreaking incident,” an anonymous eyewitness said. “What was supposed to be an act of kindness turned into a terrible tragedy.”
This devastating event comes just days after another stampede at a carnival in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, claimed the lives of over 35 people, many of them children.
