- By Yetunde Yekini-Oropo
At least four persons died in Bauchi on Sunday during a stampede that ensued at the distribution of foods by a philanthropist.
Bauchi State Police Command PPRO, SP Ahmed Wakili While confirming the development, said that the Command received a distress call from ATBU Teaching Hospital on the people being rushed there for medical attention.
“On receiving the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Auwal Musa Mohammed directed for the mobilization of personnel to the scene for urgent action.”
The victims were rushed to the ATBUTH unconscious after which a Medical Doctor confirmed four of them dead, others including a 17 year old girl are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.”
He stated that the Command is appealing to individuals and organisations that have plans of embarking on such to adequately inform the Command to mobilize personnel to the venue for effective crowd control.
The crowd, largely made up of women, old and young, had gathered at the Jos Road headquarters of the Company as early as 7 am on Sunday for the distribution of the Zakat items.
It was reliably gathered that the exercise started smoothly as the beneficiaries were called in in groups to receive the items until the others became restless and apprehensive leading to a struggle to get into the main premises.
In the process, a stampade ensued as the women tried to force themselves inside while in the process, many of them fell on the ground and were trampled upon leading to the casualties.