The number of fatalities rose from an initial count of 13 to 32, with victims succumbing to crowd surges while attempting to secure food and clothing at these gatherings. The incidents unfolded amidst Nigeria's severe cost-of-living crisis, which has intensified the desperation for basic necessities.
In Okija town, Anambra state, a tragic scene unfolded where 22 people died during a food distribution organized by a philanthropist on Saturday. Similarly, in Abuja, the capital, a church-hosted event led to the death of ten more individuals.
Local police, led by spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, are currently investigating both incidents, which come shortly after another deadly stampede involving children.
The trend of organizing charity events to alleviate economic hardship before Christmas has been on the rise in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation. However, these events have now spotlighted the urgent need for better crowd management and safety protocols.
Witnesses in Abuja described chaotic scenes at around 4 a.m., with a massive crowd surge at the church entrance. Loveth Inyang, who was present, recounted rescuing a baby from the crush, noting that some had been waiting since the previous night to receive aid.
In response to these tragedies, there's an increasing demand for stricter safety measures. The Nigerian police have now stipulated that all such events require prior permission to help prevent future catastrophes. (ILKHA)