Tragedy at Gombe Eid Ground: Two Children Dead in Stampede

A stampede at the Gombe main Eid prayer ground on Sunday claimed the lives of two young children, identified as Aisha Salisu Ahmed (4½ years old) and Maryam Abdullahi Gwani (4 years old).

The tragic incident reportedly occurred when a large crowd, mainly women and children, rushed to exit the prayer venue, causing chaos and trampling. Several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

Reacting to the unfortunate event, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, expressed his condolences to the bereaved families in a statement signed by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli.

“We grieve with their families during this difficult time, and our hearts are with them as they mourn the loss of their beloved children,” the governor stated.

Governor Yahaya has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede to prevent future occurrences.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain a top priority,” he said, assuring that the government would learn from the tragedy and implement corrective measures.

In response to the crisis, the governor dispatched a high-powered delegation, led by the Chief of Staff of Government House, Alhaji Abubakar Inuwa Kari, to visit medical facilities treating the injured.

The delegation toured Zainab Bulkachuwa Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, where most patients were reported to be in stable condition. Doctors assured that many had already been treated and discharged, while others were expected to recover soon.

To support the victims and their families, Governor Yahaya has directed that all medical expenses be fully covered by the state government, ensuring proper care and easing the financial burden on parents.