The Edo State Government has dismissed the claim surrounding an incident at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium during Children’s Day celebrations on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
In a statement issued by Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government acknowledged that a stampede occurred at one of the stadium gates.
It however, rejected sensational interpretations aimed at tarnishing the state government’s image.
“The stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of excited children who came to participate in the day’s activities. The turnout was unprecedented.
“All the entrances into the facility were opened for children to access the stadium,” Ebojele said.
According to him, some excited children engaged in unruly behaviour at one gate, resulting in a stampede. A bouncer reportedly deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to pandemonium in which a few students sustained injuries.
He also said that the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who was physically present at the venue, immediately intervened by providing first aid to the affected children.
Ebojele noted that those requiring further medical attention were rushed to the Edo Specialist Hospital, treated, and have since been discharged and reunited with their families.
“The Edo State government has already authorised investigations into the incident while the bouncer involved is presently being interrogated by the Police to ascertain the immediate or remote cause of the incident,” the statement added.
The government reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of children, urging social media users to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause panic.
“Isolated incidents at large gatherings, while regrettable, do not diminish Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to child safety and wellbeing,” it said. “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.
