Okpebholo Orders Probe Into Students’ Mysterious Collapse Incident, Sparks Public Concern

According to Ireporter Online, the Edo State Government has launched an investigation into an incident that led to the collapse of some students during the May 27 Children’s Day celebration held at the Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

The government also dismissed what it described as misleading social media reports, alleging that such narratives were deliberately crafted to discredit its administration.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele, it was explained that the stadium was filled beyond capacity, with thousands of pupils participating in the celebration. The statement noted that some of the children became overly excited and engaged in unruly behaviour at one of the gates, which reportedly led to a minor stampede situation. In response, a security personnel allegedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in panic during which a few students sustained injuries.

The statement further revealed that the Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who was present at the venue, immediately intervened by assisting affected students with first aid. Those who required further medical attention were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital and have since been discharged to reunite with their families.

It added that the state government has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident, while the security personnel involved is currently being interrogated by the police to determine the immediate and remote causes of the situation.

Reaffirming the government’s stance, the statement emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic. It further maintained that isolated incidents at large gatherings should not be used to undermine ongoing efforts by the administration to improve education and child welfare in the state.