Several students collapsed during a Children’s Day celebration at the Dr Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday, May 27, after reportedly inhaling tear gas.
The tear gas was said to have been fired by a yet-to-be-identified security person during a disturbance at the event.
The injured students were rushed to the Edo Specialist Hospital for medical attention.
Reports say trouble began when some male students made unwanted advances toward female students from another school.
Bouncers stationed at the stadium intervened and rebuked the male students.
The rebuked students allegedly regrouped and attacked the bouncers, leading to a confrontation in a crowded area.
A parent who witnessed the incident said a bouncer fired a tear gas canister in an area packed with students while trying to control the male students.
Many students reportedly fainted after inhaling-Al the tear gas, and panic spread quickly.
Students, teachers and parents scrambled for safety, and many female students sustained injuries in the rush.
State Government Reacts
In a statement released on Tuesday night, the Edo State Government rejected what it called sensational interpretations, spins, twists, and misinformation about the incident.
The statement, signed by Dr Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, blamed the incident on the large turnout of students at the stadium.
It said the stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of children.
The government said some excited children behaved unruly at one gate, which led to a minor stampede.
A bouncer then deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, and a few students were injured during the resulting pandemonium.
The Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa, who was at the stadium, assisted children with first aid.
Those needing further care were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital, where they received treatment and have since returned home with their families.
The Edo State Government has authorised an investigation, and the bouncer involved is being interrogated by the police.
The government called on social media users to avoid unverified narratives that could cause unnecessary panic.
It said isolated incidents at large gatherings do not diminish the governor’s commitment to child safety and well-being.
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