Four killed in Katsina Ramadan alms distribution stampede

Monday, March, 2 2026 - The Katsina State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the death of four persons following a stampede during a Ramadan alms-giving exercise in Kofar Guga Quarters of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Aliyu Abubakar, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the incident occurred on February 26, 2026.

According to him, the police received a distress call at about 9 pm reporting that a large crowd had gathered at the residence of a philanthropist, Alhaji Dahiru Usman Sarki, in Kofar Guga Quarters, leading to a stampede.

“Upon receipt of the report, a team of policemen promptly responded to the scene. The rescuers rushed the victims to the nearest hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, four of the injured later succumbed to their injuries,” the statement read.

Abubakar noted that several others sustained injuries and were receiving treatment at a medical facility.

The Commissioner of Police, Bello Shehu, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also directed a thorough investigation into the incident and ordered measures to prevent a recurrence.

“The Commissioner of Police extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes those injured a speedy recovery, as he has directed further investigation and necessary measures to prevent future occurrences,” the statement added.

The command urged philanthropists and organisations planning similar events to notify the police in advance to enable adequate security arrangements.

“The Command calls on individuals who wish to distribute alms to members of the public to notify the Command for adequate security coverage to ensure the safety of lives and property, as well as orderliness during such events, to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement concluded.

The tragedy adds to growing concerns over crowd control at charity events across the country. In December 2024, no fewer than 67 persons reportedly lost their lives in separate stampedes in Oyo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory during food distribution and children’s funfair events, sparking renewed calls for improved safety planning and crowd management at large public gatherings.