No fewer than 27 people lost their lives in a tragic stampede during a Christmas rice distribution event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, on Saturday.

The annual charity event, organised by Chief Ernest Obiejesi, a philanthropist and chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), turned deadly as an overwhelming crowd scrambled for the distributed rice.

Eyewitnesses recounted how the well-meaning event spiralled into chaos, overshadowing its humanitarian intentions.

A viral video from the scene showed the tragic aftermath, with several bodies strewn across the venue.

“Hunger has made some people act irrationally,” an eyewitness told The Nation.

“The rice would have been enough for everyone, no matter how many people came. The stampede was caused by impatience.” The source noted that Obijackson’s Foundation has consistently provided ample rice annually, benefiting people from neighbouring states as well.

In the chaos, numerous injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to the morgue.

Among the victims were two relatives of an aide to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, adding to the tragedy’s impact on the state government.

The aide, a former member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was reportedly devastated by the loss.

Police authorities have confirmed the incident, with Commissioner of Police Obono Itam deploying officers to the site.

A senior officer, speaking anonymously, described the tragedy as “a pure accident” caused by the crowd’s rush.

“The command will launch a full investigation immediately. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families,” the officer said.

This incident follows a similar stampede in Abuja earlier on Saturday, raising concerns about the safety and crowd management at public and charitable events.

Calls for stricter enforcement of safety measures have intensified as Nigeria mourns the loss of innocent lives during the festive season.