Eid-el-Fitr: 2 children die, 20 injured in Gombe stampede

Two children have been confirmed dead, while 20 other persons were injured in a stampede at the Gombe main Eid Ground in Gombe State.

The Gombe State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, confirmed this in a statement issued on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

Abdullahi disclosed that the incident occurred at about 10:45 a.m. at the exit gate of the Eid Ground, immediately after the conclusion of Eid prayers on Sunday.

Abdullahi said: “The stampede was caused by inadequate exit access, as a large crowd, primarily women and children, rushed to leave the venue.

“The situation, worsened by intense heat, led to the unfortunate incident.”

He stated that 22 people were affected and were immediately taken to hospitals for medical attention.

“Regrettably, two of the victims, a four-year-old boy, and six months old baby girl, were pronounced dead by doctors while receiving treatment,” Abdullahi added.

The police spokesman extended the command’s condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

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“The police urge Eid Ground managers to ensure that all entrance and exit gates remain open to facilitate smooth movement, especially after prayers,” he stated.

Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya has condoled with the families of the deceased and those affected by the stampede.

In a statement issued by his media aide on Sunday, the governor directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the stampede, with the aim of preventing future occurrences.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain a top priority. The state government is committed to learning from this incident and implementing corrective measures,” Yahaya said.

Yahaya also directed that all medical expenses for the injured victims be fully covered by the state government to ensure their recovery and well-being.

The Star