- Safiu Kehinde
At least, two children have been confirmed dead by Gombe State Police Command with 20 others injured following a stampede at the Gombe main Eid Ground.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Gombe.
According to Abdullahi, the incident occurred at about 10:45 a.m. at the exit gate of the Eid Ground, immediately after the conclusion of Eid prayers.
The Police spokesperson attributed the tragic incident to inadequate exit access as people rushed to leave the venue, resulting to the stampede which claimed the lives of a 4-year-old boy and a six months old baby girl.
“The stampede was caused by inadequate exit access, as a large crowd, primarily women and children, rushed to leave the venue.
“The situation, worsened by intense heat, led to the unfortunate incident,
“Regrettably, two of the victims, a four-year-old boy, and six months old baby girl, were pronounced dead by doctors while receiving treatment,” he said.
Abdullahi said that 22 individuals were affected and were immediately taken to hospitals for medical attention.
He extended the command’s condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“The police urge Eid Ground managers to ensure that all entrance and exit gates remain open to facilitate smooth movement, especially after prayers,” he advised.
Reacting to the incident, the stat governor, Inuwa Yahaya, condoled with the families of the deceased and those affected by the tragedy.
In a statement issued by his media aide on Sunday, the governor directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the stampede, with the aim of preventing future occurrences.
“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain a top priority. The state government is committed to learning from this incident and implementing corrective measures,” Yahaya said.
He also directed that all medical expenses for the injured victims be fully covered by the state government to ensure their recovery and well-being.