Edo government clarifies the stadium incident on Children’s Day.

By Ozioruva Aliu

The Edo state government clarified the events that unfolded at Samuel Ogbemdia Stadium during the Children’s Day celebration, which led to several students being taken to the hospital after tear gas was reportedly used.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, stated that some students, excited by the festivities, behaved unruly. In an attempt to restore order, a security officer allegedly released tear gas, affecting the students.

The officer has been arrested for questioning. Some students were transported to the Edo State Specialist Hospital, where they were treated and discharged; two remain hospitalized for stabilization.

An eyewitness reported that the disturbance began when male students from Ihogbe College allegedly made inappropriate advances toward female students. A parent who observed the incident said, “the behaviour of those uncultured students attracted the attention of bouncers stationed at the stadium as they rebuked the male students.”

According to him, the affected students later regrouped and attacked the bouncers, sparking a confrontation in the crowded arena. It was reported that the bouncers deployed pepper spray in an area occupied by many students amid the confusion.

Dr. Ebojele added, “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 entrances were opened for children to access the stadium. Some excited children resorted to unruly behaviour at one of the gates, an incident that led to a stampede which necessitated one of the bouncers to deploy tear gas to disperse them. In the pandemonium that followed, a few students sustained injuries.”

He continued, “Deputy Governor Rt Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who was physically present at the stadium, rose to the challenge immediately, assisting children with first aid; those requiring further care were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital where they received appropriate medical attention and are now safely back home with their families.”

The statement noted that the government has authorized investigations into the incident and that the bouncer involved is being interrogated by the police to determine the cause. The government reiterated its commitment to the safety and security of all, particularly children, and urged social media users to refrain from spreading unverified narratives that could cause unnecessary panic.

“Isolated incidents at large gatherings, while regrettable, do not diminish Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to child safety and wellbeing. The Governor’s investment in education is the reason for the large attendance of students from different schools in the state to celebrate Children’s Day,” the statement added.

“We thank the security personnel, medical staff, and volunteers for their swift response and dedication to duty. Their immediate response helped to quell the tension.”

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