Tragedy struck in Nigeria's capital city, Abuja, as ten individuals, including four children, lost their lives in a stampede during a Christmas event organized by a local church. The incident occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the upscale area of Maitama, where a large crowd had gathered to receive food items being distributed.
According to a statement from police spokesperson Josephine Adeh, the stampede took place in the early hours of the morning. Over 1,000 people were present at the church, leading to chaos and ultimately the fatal stampede. The police have since evacuated the premises.
This unfortunate event marks the second stampede in Nigeria within a week. The country is currently facing a severe cost-of-living crisis, prompting various organizations, churches, and individuals to organize charity events ahead of Christmas to support those in need.