As the holiday season draws near, tragic stampedes have claimed over 50 lives in separate incidents in Abuja and Anambra State, Nigeria.
In Abuja, a stampede occurred on Saturday at a Catholic church in Maitama, reportedly leaving about 15 people dead. Witnesses say the church premises were overcrowded during an event, leading to the unfortunate incident.
Meanwhile, in Anambra State, a more devastating stampede unfolded early Saturday morning at the residence of Chief Earnest Azudialo Obiejesi, popularly known as Obi Jackson, in Okija. The stampede reportedly left up to 25 people dead during the distribution of Christmas palliatives, including rice and other consumables.
According to eyewitnesses, the event, which is a customary gesture by Obi Jackson during the Yuletide, saw an unusually large crowd of mainly elderly women and widows, far exceeding the turnout in previous years. The overcrowding led to panic and a rush that spiraled out of control.
Local authorities are yet to issue official statements regarding the fatalities in both incidents. Investigations are ongoing as Nigerians mourn the tragic losses ahead of what should be a season of joy and celebration.
