Our reporter/ Dozens of Anambra residents are feared killed after a rice-sharing event led to a stampede in Okija, Anambra on Saturday.
The tragedy came after Obi Jackson Foundation, run by oil magnate Ernest Obiejesi, announced plans to share rice to the less privileged in the spirit of 2024 Christmas.
“Dozens of people were killed,” an eyewitness witness confirmed. Videos showed the bodies of some of the diseased, mostly women.
According to people who witnessed the tragedy, many injured participants were rushed to Our Lady’s Hospital in Okija.
The police in Anambra said the matter was under investigation, with the command spokesperson declining to elaborate.
Thousands of 10-kilogramme bags of rice were shared, and many people received only cups of rice because of the large number of people looking to benefit from the Christmas charity, which Mr Obiejesi organises annually. His foundation operates children’s hospitals and educational facilities in Okija, about 100 kilometres south of Awka, the state capital.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command. Awka, SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that the incident happened in the early hours of Saturday at Okija.
“Unfortunately, before the event could start, a large number of uncontrolled persons took over the event area which resulted in a stampede,” the police statement said.
Multiple viral social media videos show lifeless bodies laying on the ground after the incident.
A male voice who recorded the video was heard saying “These are people who went to share rice at Obi Jackson’s House. We are at Our Ladies now. They were trampled to death. Look at them, they went to get a share of Obi Jackson’s rice and they were trampled to death. Look at them, including women. They were trampled to death. This person is dead. It’s happening now. Look at many dead bodies everywhere. They are at Our Ladies now. Just watch and see. There are many of them, even pregnant women are among them. It’s happening now, 21st December, it’s an abomination. Look at them, they are still bringing more people. They said some are still unconscious and they are bringing them too. It’s an abomination.”
Counting, the bodies seen on the floor were about 15 in number. Voices were also heard crying in the background.
Although the details of the affected persons as still sketchy, police said its operatives have taken over the scene for proper investigation.
-Obijackson Foundation bemoans Anambra stampede tragedy
Meanwhile, the Obijackson Foundation has expressed “deep sorrow” over the tragic incident that occurred during its annual rice sharing event at the Amaranta Stadium in Okija on Saturday morning.
In a heartfelt statement, the Foundation extended its condolences to Governor Charles Soludo, the bereaved families, and the entire Okija community.
“This tragedy breaks our hearts,” the Foundation stated.
“The annual rice sharing event is a labor of love, aimed at bringing joy and relief to those in need.
“That it resulted in such sorrow is devastating beyond words,” the Foundation noted.
Acknowledging the gravity of the incident, the Obijackson Foundation pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy thoroughly and to implement enhanced safety measures for future events.
“We humbly seek the understanding of our community as we reflect on this painful moment.
“This setback will not deter us from our mission to serve the vulnerable and uplift those in need. We will learn from this experience and strive to do better,” the statement read.
The Foundation also commended the swift response of security personnel and rescue workers, whose efforts helped mitigate the impact of the incident.
“As the community mourns, we reiterate our commitment to supporting those affected and continuing its charitable endeavors in more controlled and secure ways,” the Foundation promised.
“The tragedy has cast a shadow over what is usually a joyous season in Okija, but the Obijackson Foundation remains steadfast in its resolve to serve the less privileged.
“The incident, though heartbreaking, further strengthens the profound love and dedication the Obijackson Foundation have for the people of Okija. Through this challenging moment, we reaffirm our resolve to serve the people, while ensuring the Foundation’s legacy of kindness and compassion do not waver,” it added.
Charles Aburime, the chief press secretary to the Anambra governor, also confirmed the incident when contacted.
Aburime said the state government is monitoring the situation and would soon release a statement.
The Anambra stampede is the second rice distribution-related mishap in 2024.
In March, some students of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, were killed in a stampede during the distribution of rice donated by the state government.
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