Death toll in Anambra stampede hits 22

The death toll in the unfortunate stampede incident in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State rises to 22, the Nigeria Police have confirmed.

The tragedy occurred on Saturday at the scene of a palliative distribution organised by a philanthropist in Okija.

The police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who gave an update on the development in a statement on Sunday in Onitsha, said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, visited the hospital where the victims of the tragic stampede are receiving treatment.

He said that Itam sympathised with the families and friends of the deceased while he wished those injured quick recovery.

He said an investigation into the unfortunate event was ongoing, adding that the command remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the people during and after the festive period.