Tragedy struck in Okija, a community within the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Saturday as a devastating stampede left scores feared dead.
The chaos unfolded at the residence of renowned entrepreneur Ernest Obiejesi, affectionately known as Obijackson, where a crowd had gathered in anticipation of the distribution of bags of rice donated by the billionaire.
Disturbing video footage that has since gone viral on social media reveals the horrifying scene, with lifeless bodies, predominantly that of women, strewn across the ground.
Witnesses recounted that the pandemonium erupted around 6 a.m. Saturday, as throngs of people congregated at the gates of Mr Obiejesi’s home, some having camped there since Friday night, eager for the charitable giveaway.
Reports from those on the scene indicated that over 19 bodies were counted lying on the ground, with some victims being transported to Our Lady’s Hospital, Okija.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident through spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, who, while acknowledging the tragic loss of life, stated that details remained unclear.
Superintendent Ikenga added that police operatives have been dispatched to the area to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the calamity.
