The Edo State Government has commenced an investigation into the stampede that occurred on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, leaving several students with varying degrees of injuries.
The government also disclosed that the bouncer involved in the incident is currently being interrogated by the Police to determine the immediate and remote causes of the development.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, disclosed this in a statement while reacting to the unfortunate incident.
According to Ebojele, the pandemonium began when some excited children allegedly engaged in unruly behaviour at one of the stadium gates.
He explained that the situation escalated into what he described as “a kind of stampede,” prompting one of the bouncers at the venue to deploy tear gas in an attempt to disperse the students.
“In the course of the pandemonium that ensued, a few students sustained injuries,” he stated.
Ebojele noted that the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was filled with thousands of enthusiastic children who turned out to participate in the Children’s Day activities, adding that the turnout was unprecedented.
He said all entrances into the facility were opened to allow easy access for the students and other participants.
The governor’s aide further revealed that the State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, who was physically present at the stadium, immediately rose to the occasion by assisting affected children with first aid treatment.
He added that those who required additional medical attention were quickly taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital where they received appropriate treatment and have since returned home safely to their families.
Ebojele reiterated the Edo State Government’s commitment to the safety and security of all residents, especially children, stressing that the incident would not diminish Governor Monday Okpebholo’s dedication to child welfare and educational development.
Describing the incident as an isolated occurrence often associated with large gatherings, he said the governor’s investment in education was responsible for the massive turnout of students from various schools across the state.
“The Governor’s unparalleled investment in education is the reason for the huge attendance by students of different schools in the state to celebrate Children’s Day,” he said.
The Chief Press Secretary also commended security personnel, medical workers and volunteers for their swift response and professionalism, noting that their prompt intervention helped calm tensions and prevent further escalation.
He, however, urged social media users to avoid spreading unverified narratives capable of creating unnecessary panic within the state.
