Tragedy strikes during aid distribution in Nigeria's Bama
A tragic incident occurred in Nigeria during the distribution of humanitarian aid. Three people died, and over 20 were injured when a crowd attempted to force their way through a narrow gate at a school in Bama. The event, organised by the International Red Cross and UNICEF, aimed to support the residents of Borno State.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the tragedy occur? On Thursday in Bama, Borno State, during the distribution of humanitarian aid.
- What caused the panic? The crowd tried to force the narrow school gate, leading to several people being trampled.
- Who organised the aid? The International Red Cross and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
How did the tragedy in Bama happen?
On Thursday morning, a group of several hundred people, mostly women, gathered in front of the local school in Bama, awaiting financial aid of 28,500 naira, which is approximately £15 sterling.
When the school gate was opened, the crowd panicked, leading to the tragic trampling of three people. The police were called to the scene to restore order and allow for the evacuation of the injured.
Have similar incidents occurred before?
Unfortunately, such cases are not uncommon in Nigeria. Last December, in Okija, Anambra State, 17 people died during a rice distribution before the holidays.
At the same time, at an Islamic high school near Ibadan, 35 children died. These tragic events result from the country's difficult economic situation.
Why is Nigeria struggling with a crisis?
Nigeria, despite its oil wealth, is experiencing the worst economic crisis in over two decades. High inflation has caused a sharp rise in food prices, making basic food items unattainable for many residents.
As a result, many Nigerians are forced to rely on humanitarian aid to survive.
