At least, four persons have died in a stampede during the distribution of Ramadan gifts (zakat exercise) for the poor in Bauchi State.
Several other persons, especially women and children, reportedly sustained various degrees during the incident.
It was gathered that the stampede occurred at the Shafa Holdings Company plc headquarters along Jos Road, on Sunday.
Additionally, a 17-year-old girl, Naima Abdullahi, has been hospitalized following the incident and is currently receiving treatment at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi.
The police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakili, confirmed the incident to journalists, stating that that the situation is currently under control.
Wakili stated that the police acted swiftly upon hearing the report.
He noted that the Commissioner of Police had appealed for calm and reassured the public of their safety.
According to report, the crowd had been dispersed, and police vehicles were stationed in the area.
However, it was gathered that some individuals are still waiting outside in anticipation of further disbursement.
Shafa Holdings Company plc has not issued an official statement regarding the incident as at the time of publishing report.
The local community is in mourning, and there are calls for improved safety measures during large public gatherings to prevent such tragedies in the future.
