A stampede during a Christmas rice distribution event in Okija, Anambra, has left dozens feared dead and many others hospitalized.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning during an event organized by the Obi Jackson Foundation, led by oil magnate Ernest Obiejesi. The foundation had announced plans to share rice with the less privileged in celebration of Christmas.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as large crowds surged forward to collect the rice. “Dozens of people were killed,” one witness told Peoples Gazette. Videos from the scene show the lifeless bodies of victims, mostly women, while the injured were rushed to Our Lady’s Hospital in Okija.
A hospital spokesperson has not yet commented on the situation. The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident is under investigation, but additional details were not provided.
According to a resident, thousands of 10-kilogram bags of rice were distributed, but the overwhelming turnout meant many attendees only received small portions, causing desperation and unrest. The annual charity event is a hallmark of Mr. Obiejesi’s foundation, which also runs children’s hospitals and educational facilities in Okija, about 100 kilometers south of Awka, the state capital.
The foundation has yet to release an official statement, and Mr. Obiejesi has not responded to requests for comments.
This tragedy comes just days after a similar Christmas charity event in Ibadan resulted in the deaths of 35 children, raising concerns about crowd management and safety at such initiatives.
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