27 Dead in Stampedes During Palliative and Rice Distribution in Anambra and Abuja

Tragedy struck in two Nigerian states on Saturday as stampedes during the distribution of rice and palliatives claimed at least 27 lives.  

In Anambra State, 17 people lost their lives and several others were injured during the annual Christmas rice distribution by the Obijackson Foundation in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area. According to eyewitness accounts, residents, including women and youths, began gathering as early as 5 a.m., anticipating the start of the distribution. However, the large crowd became uncontrollable once the process began, leading to a deadly stampede.  

The victims were rushed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, where some of the injured are currently receiving treatment. A viral video from the scene showed bodies, including those of pregnant women, outside the hospital’s mortuary, further highlighting the scale of the tragedy.  

In Abuja, another stampede occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, where palliatives were being distributed to thousands of residents from Mpape, Gishiri Village, and neighboring areas. At least 10 people, including children, died in the incident, with several others injured.  

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the crowd exceeding 3,000 people. The event was organized by the church to provide relief to struggling residents, but the overwhelming turnout turned the initiative into a devastating tragedy.  

Both incidents have left communities in mourning and have raised concerns about crowd control measures during charitable distributions. Authorities are yet to release detailed statements on the incidents, but calls for better organization and safety protocols during such events have intensified.