Deborah Akinyosoye
A stampede occurred on Sunday at the Eid ground in Gombe State, claiming two lives while 20 victims were hospitalised.
This was disclosed in a statement by the spokesperson for the Gombe State Police Command, DSP Buhari Abdullahi.
According to Abdullahi, the incident happened at the exit gate of the Eid ground, immediately after the conclusion of the Eid prayer.
He said a large crowd, primarily women and children, rushed to leave the venue in haste, which, coupled with the intense heat, led to the stampede.
The spokesperson said a swift response was made as ambulances from the Gombe State Government House quickly evacuated 15 victims to Zainab Bulkachuwa Hospital, while seven others were taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, for medical treatment.
He said the medical bills for all the victims receiving treatment have been covered by the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
According to Abdullahi, two of the victims were certified dead by the medical doctor while receiving treatment, He gave their names as Aisha Salisu Ahmed (F) 4yrs, and Maryam Abdullahi Gwani (F) 4yrs.
“The Gombe State Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured, who are currently receiving medical care.
“Furthermore, the command advises the managers of the Eid grounds to ensure that all entrance and exit gates are open to allow for smooth movement of worshippers, particularly after the prayers. The stampede was caused by the lack of adequate exit access following the conclusion of the Eid prayers.”
