In the unfortunate events that transpired in Okija, a community nestled within the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, the local police have reported with great sorrow that a total of 22 souls were lost on the fateful Saturday.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the police force, imparted this heart-wrenching news in a statement released on Sunday morning following the tragedy.
The residents, driven by a noble spirit, had convened with hopeful anticipation to receive bags of rice, graciously donated by a philanthropist through the Obijackson Foundation—an initiative established by the enterprising Mr. Ernest Obiejesi, who is endearingly referred to as Obijackson.
Alas, during the distribution, pandemonium erupted, resulting in a harrowing stampede.
The grim toll of the calamity was confirmed by the State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono, who diligently visited the hospital where the victims had been taken, a witness to the unfortunate plight that had befallen the community..
Mr. Ikenga noted that, in addition to the confirmed deaths, several others were injured, though no specific details on the injuries were provided.
“CP Nnaghe Obono Itam visited the hospital where the victims of the tragic stampede that occurred on 21/12/2024 in Okija, Ihiala local government area, are receiving treatment and regrettably Stated that twenty-two people lost their lives.”
The police chief expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery and asassured that “investigation into the unfortunate incident is still ongoing.”
Ikenga noted that; “The Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ndi Anambra, with a focus on crime prevention, responding to emergencies, protecting vulnerable populations, and fostering a sense of community security,” the statement concluded.
