By Suleiman Anyalewechi
The Anambra State Police on Sunday December 22, 2024, confirmed that 22 persons lost their lives in the stampede that resulted from the sharing of Christmas palliatives in Okija, Ihiala Local Council of Anambra state on Saturday.
The Source reports that thousand of residents from some communities within Okija and outside had trooped out to partake in the Christmas gesture being powered by Obi Jackson Foundation, owned by Oil magnate, Chief Ernest Obiejesi.
Unfortunately, the yearly ritual, owing to poor crowd control and alleged desperation on the part of the people turned sour.
A statement issued by the Command spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, also noted that several injuries were recorded. He was, however, not specific on the number of persons involved.
According to Ikenga, the State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has visited the medical facilities where the injured are currently receiving attention.
“CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, visited the hospital where the victims of the tragic stampede that occurred on 21/12/2024 in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, are receiving treatment and regrettably, stated that twenty two ( 22) people lost their lives”, the Police stated.
The Police spokesman further informed that a full scale investigation has commenced with a view to ascertaining the actual circumstances that led to the sad development.
Meanwhile, the Command has reaffirmed its commitment towards providing adequate security before ,during, and after the festive season, with emphasis on the protection of vulnerable groups and residents.
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