Stampede at Abuja Church Palliative Distribution Claims 10 Lives

• At least 10 people, including children, have died after a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.

• Many others were injured as thousands of locals rushed for aid given by the church.

• The sad event happened around 7:00 AM during a relief effort for residents in Mpape, Gishiri Village, and nearby areas.

At least 10 people, including children, have died after a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.

Many others were injured as thousands of locals rushed for aid given by the church.

The sad event happened around 7:00 AM during a relief effort for residents in Mpape, Gishiri Village, and nearby areas.

Reports indicate that over 3,000 people showed up at the church, with many arriving early in the morning to receive aid.

An eyewitness described the atmosphere as chaotic and heartbreaking, pointing out that at least seven of those who died were children.

“10 people have been reported dead, including children. We just received a call that they have passed on.

“Over 3,000 people came out to receive the palliative. It’s unfortunate. Some of them arrived as early as 4:00 AM. Most of those present were residents of Mpape, Gishiri Village, and other nearby settlements.

“The stampede occurred between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The distribution of palliatives has been suspended indefinitely, and people are dispersing. May God receive the souls of the departed and protect us from harm,” the eyewitness, a mother of five, said.

Padre Mike Nsikak Umoh, who is the National Director of Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, has confirmed that the distribution has been put on hold indefinitely. A joint team of police, military, and DSS officers was sent to restore order, and the area has now been cleared.

This unfortunate event follows similar tragedies in Ibadan, Oyo State, and Okija, Anambra State, where stampedes resulted in several deaths during public events. The repeated occurrence of such incidents has raised worries about how crowds are managed and the safety measures in place for large gatherings.

The authorities and the church have shared their condolences with the families in mourning, and inquiries are anticipated to uncover how the situation escalated.