Hunger: Many Feared Killed in a Stampede During Free Rice Distribution in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Residents of Okija community in Anambra state were on Saturday thrown into mourning following death of yet-to-be confirmed numbers of lives in a stampede.

The stampede reportedly occurred in the morning during an event for the distribution of rice.

Viral videos show lifeless bodies, mostly women laying on the ground after the incident, while some of the victims have reportedly been taken to nearby hospitals.

Press Secretary to the governor, Christian Aburime confirmed the incident, saying the government was monitoring the situation and would soon release a statement.

The incident, coming few days after over 35 people, mostly children, died during a stampede at a carnival in Ibadan, Oyo state capital is the second rice distribution-related mishap this year.

In March, some students of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, were killed in a stampede during distribution of rice donated by the state government.