A tragic stampede occurred at the residence of Minister of Defense Alhaji Bello Matawalle in Gusau, Zamfara State, resulting in one death and six injuries, security sources confirmed on Friday.
The incident unfolded around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday as a large crowd had gathered to welcome the minister. Social media reports, including from Zagazola Makama, described the scene as chaotic, which triggered the stampede.
Among the victims was 23-year-old Khalifa Uzairu, who was pronounced dead on arrival at Farida General Hospital. The others—Ayuba Sani, Muhammadu Adams, Aliyu Aminu, Shaaban Hamisu, and Inusa Musa Shehu—were admitted for treatment, with officials stating their conditions are stable.
Security forces were quickly deployed to restore order. Authorities are investigating the cause of the stampede and whether any negligence or other factors contributed.
The public has been urged to follow security guidance and exercise caution at official gatherings to prevent similar incidents in the future.
