A tragic stampede during a rice-sharing event in Okija, Anambra State, has left several residents feared dead. The incident occurred on Saturday when a large crowd gathered to receive free bags of rice distributed by Obijackson.
In a viral video circulating online, a witness expressed sorrow over the unfortunate event, lamenting the harsh economic realities that drove many to the scene.
“It’s a pity. Poverty is terrible. Assuming these women who met their untimely deaths were not poor, they would not have been there in the first place. God have mercy, and may their souls rest in peace. Amen,” said a witness, Nwanonenyi.
Although the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed by authorities, the incident underscores the worsening economic struggles faced by many Nigerians.
This tragedy comes shortly after a similar stampede occurred at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan, during a children’s Christmas party organized by Agidigbo 88.7 FM in collaboration with Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, which claimed the lives of 35 children.