At least 12 people were confirmed dead on Saturday morning in Okija town, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state, while scrambling for Christmas rice.
It is also estimated that over 32 people sustained various degrees of injury in the stampede caused by the distribution of rice organised by a son of the town and philanthropist, Chief Earnest Obiejesi, also known as Obi Jackson.
It was gathered that the distribution of food items has always been an annual tradition for philanthropist Obiejesi during most festive seasons, and is part of his foundation’s effort to assist his kinsmen, often culminating in a large carnival.
However, this year’s distribution was marred by deaths and injuries as the surging crowd became uncontrollable, leading to a stampede that has so far claimed twelve lives.
A son of the town, who identified himself as Uchenna, said: “It is not our brother Obi Jackson who caused their deaths, but the crowd that refused to comport themselves.
The bags of rice I saw could take care of everyone and even more people, but due to the hunger in the land, most people feared that the rice might not reach them. This led to the tragic incident, and it is very unfortunate,”.
Credit: Business Day