The death toll from two stampedes at Christmas charity events in Nigeria has risen to 32, police confirmed on Sunday. Among the victims were at least four children, highlighting the tragic consequences of overcrowding at such events.
In southeastern Anambra state’s Okija town, 22 people lost their lives during a food distribution event organized by a philanthropist. Meanwhile, 10 others died in the capital, Abuja, at a similar event hosted by a church. Both incidents have prompted investigations by local police.
Economic Crisis Drives Crowds to Charity Events
Nigeria is facing its worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation, pushing people to seek help at charity distributions. These events, often organized by churches, individuals, or local groups, aim to provide relief but lack proper crowd control measures.
In Abuja, witnesses described a chaotic surge at a church gate as people tried to enter around 4 a.m., hours before the event began. Many, including elderly participants, waited overnight in hopes of receiving food. Loveth Inyang, a witness, recalled rescuing a baby from the crush.
Calls for Safety Measures Intensify
Authorities are facing growing demands to enforce stricter safety protocols at charity events. Nigerian police now require organizers to secure prior permission and implement crowd management strategies.
This is not the first time such tragedies have occurred. In May 2022, a stampede at a church event in Port Harcourt killed 31 people. The “Shop for Free” programme, organized by the Kings Assembly Pentecostal Church, was intended to distribute essential goods to those in need.
The recent incidents have reignited debates over how to prevent further loss of life during charity events in Nigeria’s economically strained society.
