Nigerian music star Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has reacted to the tragic stampede that occurred during his concert in Nairobi, Kenya, which reportedly claimed the life of a young woman.
The incident happened on December 20, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium, where Asake was the headline performer. The victim was later identified as Karen Lojore, said to be in her mid-20s.
In a statement shared on his Instagram stories, the award-winning singer said he was devastated by the incident and described the loss as painful and unacceptable.
“My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore,” Asake wrote.
He added, “I am devastated by what happened. I pledge to support and do my best to understand what went wrong. Those responsible should be held accountable.”
The singer, known for his energetic stage performances, said music has always been his way of spreading love and joy, making the incident difficult for him to process.
“It breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss,” he said. “My thoughts are with everyone grieving, and I pray that Karen rests in peace. God bless Kenya.”
Event organisers, Tukutane Entertainment, also confirmed the fatal incident in a statement, expressing sadness over the loss of life.
“Our hearts are with the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this devastating loss,” the organisers said.
They stated that safety remains a top priority and confirmed they are fully cooperating with emergency responders and relevant authorities as investigations continue.
“The safety and well-being of everyone who attends our events is something we take very seriously,” the statement added. “Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, we will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
According to reports, Lojore was allegedly trampled during chaotic scenes outside the venue and was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Her body was later taken to the City Mortuary.
Friends of the deceased said Karen had a valid ticket and sustained fatal injuries while trying to gain entry as the crowd situation got out of control.
Her mother later shared a heartbreaking message on Instagram, demanding justice.
“Karen, why? What happened? You had that ticket. What happened to my child?” she wrote. “Why her, why? I want justice for my child.”
Citizen TV journalist Immanuel Ndungu, who witnessed the incident, said the stampede was not sudden but the result of poor crowd management.
He explained that large crowds gathered at the main entrance, where security set up separate lines for men and women, but the narrow access point and weak control led to pressure.
Entry into the stadium was reportedly stopped for about 30 minutes, increasing tension as more people arrived. Police intervention, allegedly involving force, was said to have worsened the situation.
Attempts by stewards to allow small groups inside reportedly led to more pushing and panic.
The tragedy has also revived memories of a similar incident linked to Asake’s concert in London in 2022, where a fan, Rebecca Ikumeleo, died and several others were injured.
Investigations into the Nairobi incident are ongoing.
