The Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident at Emirate Hotel in Ikere-Ekiti that claimed the lives of three persons, including two students of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI).
The victims reportedly included a staff member of the hotel and two students who had gathered at the facility for a post-convocation celebration following their ceremony on April 18, 2026.
Preliminary findings by the Nigeria Police Force indicate that the celebration extended into the early hours of the following day. During the event, an argument reportedly broke out between two yet-to-be-identified students.
The disagreement escalated into a physical altercation, causing panic among other guests at the venue. In the confusion that followed, several attendees attempted to flee the premises simultaneously, resulting in a stampede.
The stampede led to the deaths of three individuals, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Police authorities confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been deposited in a morgue for autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Commissioner Adegoroye expressed deep condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims, urging members of the public to remain calm as investigations continue.
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He assured residents that the Command would leave no stone unturned in unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
In a statement issued by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, the Command reiterated its commitment to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation.
The police also appealed to witnesses and individuals with useful information to come forward to assist ongoing inquiries.
The tragic development has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous convocation celebration, prompting renewed concerns about crowd management and safety measures at social gatherings across the state.