Tragedy struck in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, as three persons lost their lives and several others were hospitalised following a stampede at a post-convocation party organised by graduates of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday at a popular hotel in the town, where students had gathered to celebrate the institution’s second convocation held on April 18.
Confirming the development, Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Falade Adegoroye Michael, said the victims included a fresh graduate, an undergraduate and a hotel staff member. He added that a full investigation had been ordered.
Police preliminary findings indicate that chaos broke out after a disagreement between two students escalated into a fight, triggering panic among partygoers. In the rush to escape, a stampede ensued, leading to fatalities and multiple injuries.
Eyewitnesses said the situation worsened when some individuals allegedly brandished sharp objects, causing fear and a disorderly exit as attendees scrambled for safety. Some victims were reportedly trampled, while one was said to have been attacked during the violence.
The bodies of the deceased have been deposited in the morgue for autopsy, while the police urged calm, assuring that those responsible would be identified.
