Two children die, others hospitalized during Salah prayer stampede in Gombe

 

Two children have allegedly died in a stampede at the Gombe main Eid Ground.

The tragic incident allegedly occurred at about 10:45 a.m. at the exit gate of the Eid Ground, immediately after the conclusion of Eid prayers.

Spokesman of the State Police Command, Buhari Abdullahi, who confirmed the incident to newsmen, described the ugly incident as unfortunate.

Abdullahi attributed the cause of the stampede to inadequate exit access at the Eid ground.

He explained that there was a large crowd at the praying ground to observe the Eid-el-fitri prayer.

According to him, the victims were in the crowd, primarily women and children, while rushing to leave the venue.

“The situation, worsened by intense heat, led to the unfortunate incident in which 22 individuals were affected and were immediately taken to hospitals for medical attention.

“Regrettably, two of the victims, a four-year-old boy, and a six-month-old baby girl, were pronounced dead by doctors while receiving treatment,” Abdullahi said.

He extended the command’s condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

“The police urge Eid Ground managers to ensure that all entrance and exit gates remain open to facilitate smooth movement, especially after prayers,” he advised.

Meanwhile, Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has condoled with the families of the deceased and those affected by the tragedy.

Inuwa, in a statement, directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the stampede, to prevent future occurrences.