At least 10 people, including children, are feared dead, and many others injured following a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.
The tragedy unfolded as thousands of residents rushed to receive palliatives distributed by the church.
The event, aimed at assisting struggling residents, attracted over 3,000 people, primarily from Mpape, Gishiri Village, and nearby communities. Padre Mike Nsikak Umoh, National Director of Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, confirmed the incident, announcing the suspension of the palliative distribution.
“Yes it’s true but with sketchy details,” he said.
An eyewitness described the scene as chaotic and tragic, revealing that at least seven of the deceased were children.
Many attendees arrived as early as 4:00 AM, hoping to secure their share of the palliatives. The stampede occurred between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM when the crowd surged forward.
“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.
In response to the chaos, a joint team of police, military, and DSS officers was deployed to restore order and disperse the crowd. The church premises, initially packed with anxious beneficiaries, were gradually cleared as security forces enforced the suspension of the event.
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