The stampede claimed the life of a woman, Mary Christiana Ogar of Imaje, Yala Local Government Area, leaving another hospitalised.
By Frank Ulom
·
Published on October 24, 2026
·
2 min read
The Cross River State Government has expressed sorrow over a reported stampede at an empowerment distribution centre in Ogoja Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed a life on October 22, 2026.
The government also pledged transparency and accountability, assuring residents that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be established through an impartial investigation.
Daily Lamp reports that the incident occurred during an empowerment exercise organised by the Wife of the Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, at Bishop MacGetrick Institute of Technology (formerly Teachers’ Training College [TTC]), Ogoja, on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
The stampede claimed the life of a woman, Mary Christiana Ogar of Imaje, Yala Local Government Area, leaving another hospitalised.
In a press release dated October 24, 2026, and signed by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu, Linus Obogo, the government extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed concern for those who may have sustained injuries.
The statement said the government was “deeply saddened and profoundly concerned” by reports of the incident.
It added that every life was precious and that any incident resulting in grief among residents required compassion, seriousness and responsible action.
The government acknowledged the public concern generated by the development, assuring citizens that their concerns would neither be dismissed nor treated lightly.
It stated that an impartial investigation would be conducted to establish the facts surrounding the stampede, while appropriate measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence.
The government also appealed for calm and responsible public discourse as it prioritised the welfare of the affected families.
