Church stampede leaves 10 dead, many injured in Abuja

Ten persons, including four children, were killed in a stampede at a food distribution event held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday, according to confirmation from the Federal Capital Territory Police Command. 

Around 6:30 am, more than 1,000 people gathered to gather food supplies meant for the elderly and vulnerable, according to Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer, SP. 

According to Adeh, the police had successfully evacuated the area and brought peace back.

Part of the statement reads: “This tragic incident, which occurred around 6:30 am, led to a stampede that claimed the lives of 10 people, including four children, and left eight others injured.

Four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims are still receiving medical care.”

According to her, “The FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force have successfully evacuated the remaining crowd, which numbered over a thousand.”

She stated that in order to provide assistance and guarantee appropriate care, CP Olatunji Disu, the Commissioner of Police, paid a visit to the hospital's injured patients.

Adeh said, “The FCT Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to the injured. In a show of compassion and support, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu has visited the victims in the hospital to offer assistance and reassurance during this difficult time.

She underlined that the command must be informed beforehand of any such incidents in order to avert such catastrophes. Adeh warned that event planners will be held responsible if they didn't comply.

Source