Onitsha, Dec. 22, 2024 – The police in Anambra State have confirmed that 22 persons were killed during a stampede in Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state on Saturday.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the State Police Spokesman, gave the figures in a statement on Sunday.
He said the people were killed during a stampede at an event where they were sharing bags of rice donated by a philanthropist through a foundation when the incident happened.
The statement said the State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono, confirmed the casualty figures when he visited the hospital where the victims were taken to.
The police commissioner commiserated with the families and friends of the deceased and wished those injured quick recovery.
He said investigation into the incident was still ongoing.
“The Police Command remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ndi Anambra on crime prevention, responding promptly and effectively to emergencies, protecting vulnerable populations and fostering a sense of security and community,” Obono said. (GBN)