Investigation begins into Edo Children’s Day stampede, bouncer under police scrutiny

The Edo State Government has announced the commencement of a full investigation into the stampede that occurred on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, during this year’s Children’s Day celebration, which left several students injured.

Authorities also confirmed that a bouncer allegedly involved in the incident is currently being interrogated by the police to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the disturbance

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, disclosed this in an official statement issued in reaction to the incident.

According to Ebojele, preliminary accounts suggest that the chaos was triggered by some excited students who allegedly engaged in unruly behaviour at one of the stadium gates, leading to panic and a resulting stampede.

He explained that in the ensuing confusion, one of the security personnel deployed tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowd, which further escalated the situation and contributed to injuries among some students.

Ebojele noted that the stadium was heavily populated with thousands of pupils and students from various schools across the state, describing the turnout as “unprecedented,” with all entry points opened to allow smooth access into the facility.

The statement revealed that Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, who was present at the venue, immediately intervened and coordinated first aid response efforts for affected students.

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Those who required additional medical attention were reportedly transferred to the Edo Specialist Hospital, where they received treatment and have since been discharged to rejoin their families.

The state government described the incident as unfortunate but isolated, stressing that such occurrences can happen in large gatherings involving children and crowds.

Dr. Ebojele reiterated the administration’s commitment to the safety and welfare of children, noting that the incident would not undermine Governor Okpebholo’s investments in the education sector.

He said the large turnout at the event reflected the government’s growing investment in education and its engagement with schoolchildren across the state.

The Chief Press Secretary commended security operatives, medical personnel, and volunteers for their swift intervention, which he said helped to quickly bring the situation under control and prevent further escalation.

Ebojele also urged members of the public and social media users to avoid spreading unverified information about the incident, warning that misinformation could cause unnecessary panic among residents.

Meanwhile, the state government assured that the ongoing investigation would be thorough, with a view to establishing the true cause of the stampede and preventing a recurrence of such an incident in future public events.