Tragic Stampede At Abuja Church Leaves 10 Dead During Palliative Distribution

Stampede at Abuja Church Claims Lives During Relief Effort

A tragic stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Maitama District of Abuja on Saturday morning resulted in the death of 10 people, including four children, and left several others injured. The incident unfolded during the distribution of palliatives to vulnerable members of the community amidst Nigeria’s worsening cost-of-living crisis.

According to the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), the stampede occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. as thousands gathered to receive essential food and clothing items.

Details of the Incident

The National Director of Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Mike Umoh, confirmed the tragic event but noted that specifics were still being gathered.

“Yes, it’s true, but the details are sketchy,” Mr. Umoh stated.

Witnesses revealed that chaos erupted when the crowd surged forward, with many scrambling to access the relief items instead of waiting in line. Over 3,000 individuals, including children, reportedly attended the distribution, most of them from nearby settlements such as Mpape and Gishiri Village.

Police and Emergency Response

Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, confirmed the deaths of 10 individuals, noting that eight others sustained injuries. She added that four of the injured had already been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims continue to receive medical attention.

“This tragic event claimed the lives of 10 people, including four children, and injured eight others. To prevent similar occurrences, all organisations planning public events in the FCT must notify the police in advance for adequate security measures,” Ms. Adeh emphasized.

The police also warned that organisers of events who fail to comply with this directive will be held accountable for any loss of life or injuries.

FEMD’s Statement and Recommendations

The FEMD spokesperson, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the incident and reiterated the death toll. She noted that nine of the 10 injured individuals had been discharged from the hospital.

Ms. Isa conveyed the condolences of FEMD’s Director General, Abdulrahman Mohammed, to the families of the victims and the Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She further advised organisations to involve security agencies and consider using strategies like coupons and grouping beneficiaries to avoid overcrowding in future relief efforts.

In an appeal to the public, Mr. Mohammed encouraged residents to use the 112 emergency toll-free number in case of any disasters.

Eyewitness Account

One survivor, who requested anonymity, recounted the chaotic scene at the church. “We came to collect rice and clothes, but people started pushing and shoving instead of queuing. That’s when the tragedy struck.”

The aftermath of the stampede left the car park littered with victims’ belongings, including shoes and clothing.

Conclusion

This heartbreaking incident underscores the need for better crowd management and coordination during relief efforts. Authorities urge organisations to take proactive measures to ensure public safety in large gatherings, preventing avoidable tragedies like this in the future.