At least ten people, including children, lost their lives during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning during a relief item distribution event organized by the church.
The chaotic scene unfolded as more than 3,000 individuals from nearby villages and low-income suburbs gathered to receive food and clothing ahead of the Christmas celebrations. Witnesses reported that many attendees had arrived as early as 4:00 a.m., despite the event being scheduled to start between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Padre Mike Nsikak Umoh, spokesperson for the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, expressed deep sorrow over the "tragic incident" and confirmed that the distribution was suspended following the stampede. "We are heartbroken by the loss of lives and extend our deepest condolences to the families affected," he stated. Local authorities have confirmed that among the deceased were at least seven women and children.
Additionally, an unspecified number of individuals sustained injuries during the stampede. In response to the tragedy, security operatives, including secret police and military personnel, were deployed to restore order, disperse the crowd, and secure the area.
As of now, neither the government nor security agencies have issued official comments regarding the incident.
The community remains in shock as they mourn the loss of lives during what was intended to be a charitable event.
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