Four people have lost their lives in a stampede during an almsgiving exercise at the Shafa Holdings Company Plc on Jos Road in Bauchi, Bauchi State.

According to the PUNCH, the incident occurred around 10:20 am during the company’s annual Zakat exercise, aimed at assisting the less privileged in the state.

Bauchi State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakili, revealed that the stampede left five people unconscious, with four tragically losing their lives. He stated, “The command received a distress call… indicating that five people were brought to the hospital unconscious due to the stampede… Four were confirmed dead by medical doctors.”

Wakili explained that the Zakat exercise organized by Shafa Holdings Company was the main cause of the stampede. He cautioned individuals and organizations intending to give alms to involve other stakeholders, particularly the police, to manage crowd control effectively.

“The command is calling on wealthy people in the town to exercise extreme caution,” Wakili emphasized. “During the charity-giving process, especially when it involves sharing with large numbers of people, they have to inform the police to help put in place certain channels.”

He extended condolences to the public and the families of the deceased and assured that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

As investigations continue, the Bauchi State Police Command urges the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities.