Crowd Control: Lessons from Nigeria’s Festive Season Stampede

The stampede is a stark reflection of the nation’s state,

where widespread hunger and desperation have driven people to take risks and fight for survival.

Mark 6:39-40 KJV

[39] And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. [40] And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.
https://bible.com/bible/1/mrk.6.39-40.KJV

It’s one thing to draw a crowd to a beneficial event or cause,

but it’s entirely another to manage that crowd effectively.

Poor crowd management can quickly descend into chaos, resulting in potential harm or loss.

TheDiadem Magazine recently issued a Jingle Bell Alert,

outlining five essential precautions for a joyous and accident-free Christmas season.

It is our earnest prayer that our good intentions and actions never lead to unintended harm, causing us to become disillusioned with doing good.

A key takeaway from the alert is that

“as we revel in the beauty of Christmas, it’s equally important to acknowledge the potential challenges that can arise during this festive season.”

Moreover, “even the most joyous moment can be marred by unforeseen circumstances if we’re not prepared.”

Given Nigeria’s current economic instability, the risks are indeed heightened.

Recent tragic events this season underscore the urgency of emphasizing caution during this festive season.

Crowd Control: Lessons from Nigeria’s Festive Season Stampede

To start with, tragedy marred the festive season in Ibadan, Oyo State -Nigeria on December 18, 2024,

when a stampede at a children’s funfair claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others critically injured.

The event, intended to spread joy, turned disastrous due to severe overcrowding.

With over 7,500 attendees, the venue exceeded its expected capacity of 5,000, leading to chaos and a devastating stampede.

An investigation is ongoing, with several individuals arrested in connection with the incident.

The community is reeling in shock, and condolences are pouring in for the grieving families.

This heartbreaking incident emphasizes the critical importance of prioritizing safety and security at public events, particularly those involving children.

Authorities have vowed to take measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Barely three days after the Ibadan tragedy, another devastating stampede occurred in Abuja, FCT- Nigeria, on Saturday, December 21.

A food distribution event at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church turned deadly, claiming the lives of 10 people, including four children.

Over 1,000 people had gathered to collect food items, creating a chaotic situation that ultimately led to the stampede.

Eight others were injured, with four receiving treatment and later discharged, while the remaining four continue to receive medical care.

In response, the police have urged event organizers to provide advance notification to prevent similar tragedies.

The nation was still reeling from the Abuja tragedy when another devastating stampede occurred in Anambra State -Nigeria.

A palliative distribution event turned deadly, resulting in the loss of life.

An official attributed the stampede to impatience among the massive crowd of over 50,000 people,

who rushed in simultaneously, causing chaos and the tragic incident.

In the aftermath, organizers have pledged to reassess their approach to prevent similar disasters in the future.

While many have pointed to the organizers’ lack of planning as the root cause of the stampede,

it’s equally important to acknowledge the broader context.

Crowd Control: Lessons from Nigeria’s Festive Season Stampede

The stampede is a stark reflection of the nation’s state, where widespread hunger and desperation have driven people to take risks and fight for survival.

In this climate, the promise of food or aid becomes a matter of life and death,

leading individuals to push boundaries and disregard safety in pursuit of sustenance.

When we walk in the shoes of the poor and marginalized, it’s easy to understand their desperation.

In the face of hunger and scarcity, their actions become a survival instinct.

We can’t judge them for their impatience, nor can we solely blame the organizers, who, despite some shortcomings, had good intentions.

The real issue lies in the systemic failures that led to this desperation, and it’s time we address the root causes of poverty.

Also, while some may suggest that the organizers simply needed better project management and security measures, I believe the issue runs deeper.

The real challenge lies in sensitivity to the environment and the people being served.

For NGOs planning large-scale projects, it’s essential to consider the nuances of your surroundings.

Sensitivity can inform your approach, helping you decide whether to opt for discreet—private giving;

or direct—personal engagement with the communities you’re serving, such as IDP camps, orphanages, correctional centres, schools, and more.

Given the circumstances, it’s almost inevitable that a massive intervention program in a public place would lead to chaos and stampedes,

especially when hungry people are desperate for their daily bread.

These tragic incidents serve as valuable lessons for NGOs planning similar initiatives.

Don’t, however, let these tragic events discourage you from continuing your good work.

You can still bring joy to those in need through thoughtful giving.

However, it’s crucial to adopt a more sensitive and private approach, one that prioritizes the dignity and safety of the recipients.

This requires more than just hiring an expert project manager or securing a large venue.

It demands a deeper understanding of the community’s needs and a commitment to perhaps, low-key giving.

Crowd Control: Lessons from Nigeria’s Festive Season Stampede

It is our earnest prayer that our good intentions and actions never lead to unintended harm, causing us to become disillusioned with doing good.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.

May you find comfort and solace during this difficult time. May such tragedies never occur again.

However, as we move forward, it’s essential to remember that safety is a collective responsibility.

Moreover, as we navigate this festive season, remember that your safety is ultimately in your hands.

Stay vigilant, prioritize caution, and take necessary precautions to ensure your well-being.

Also Read: Jingle Bell Alert: Staying Safe This Christmas – Diademng

Crowd Control: Lessons from Nigeria’s Festive Season Stampede