The Edo State Government has clarified circumstances surrounding the incident that occurred during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, describing some reports circulating on social media as misleading and sensational.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the government said the stadium witnessed an unprecedented turnout of school children who gathered to participate in the annual Children’s Day activities.
According to the statement, all entrances to the stadium were opened to allow easy access into the venue, but some excited children allegedly became unruly at one of the gates, resulting in a stampede-like situation.
The government explained that a security bouncer deployed tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowd and restore order, leading to panic during which a few students sustained minor injuries.
“The stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of excited children who came to participate in the day’s activities. Some excited children resorted to unruly behaviour at one of the gates, an incident that led to some kind of stampede,” the statement read.
It added that the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who was present at the venue, immediately intervened by assisting affected children with first aid, while those requiring further treatment were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital.
The government noted that all affected students have since been treated and safely reunited with their families.
Dr. Ebojele further disclosed that Governor Monday Okpebholo had ordered a full investigation into the incident, while the security operative involved is currently being interrogated by the police.
“The Edo State Government has already authorised investigations into the incident while the bouncer involved is presently being interrogated by the Police to ascertain the immediate or remote cause of the incident,” the statement added.
The government also urged social media users and members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
While describing the incident as regrettable, the state government maintained that it does not diminish Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to child welfare, safety and education in Edo State.
The statement also commended security personnel, medical teams and volunteers for their swift response in managing the situation and preventing further escalation.
