The Edo State Government has provided clarification regarding the incident that took place during the 2026 Children's Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, rejecting what it termed misleading narratives circulating on social media.
Government Responds to Misinformation
In a statement released yesterday, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, stated that the government strongly rejects sensational interpretations, misinformation, and deliberate attempts to twist the incident to damage the administration's reputation.
According to the statement, the stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of excited children from various schools across the state who had gathered to participate in the Children's Day activities. Ebojele described the turnout as unprecedented, adding that all entrances to the facility were opened to allow the children easy access.
He explained that at one of the gates, some excited children became unruly, leading to a stampede-like situation. This prompted a bouncer at the venue to deploy tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowd. The statement noted that a few students sustained injuries during the ensuing pandemonium.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Ebojele disclosed that Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, who was physically present at the stadium, responded immediately by providing first aid to the affected children. Those who required further medical attention were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital, where they received appropriate treatment and were later discharged to reunite with their families.
The state government has authorized an investigation into the incident, and the bouncer involved is being interrogated by the police to determine the immediate and remote causes. The government also appealed to social media users and the public to refrain from spreading unverified narratives that could create unnecessary panic.
Hospital Confirms No Fatalities
Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Edo Specialist Hospital, Dr. Anthonia Njoku, has clarified social media reports alleging that five pupils died during the incident. Speaking to newsmen in Benin, Njoku said: "We were called in for an emergency response to the stadium. We responded swiftly and appropriately to some of the children, who were evacuated by our ambulance to our facility. Resuscitation measures started immediately, and to God be the glory, we have no casualty; the children are all stable, and we want to thank our governor for his continuous support."
