The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has expressed deep regret following a stampede on Thursday, May 15, 2025, during a cash disbursement event in the Bama local government area of Borno State. Tragically, one person died and 21 others were injured.
This statement was shared on the NRCS official website, which LEADERSHIP accessed on Sunday in Maiduguri.
Cash Disbursement Exercise
The event, a collaborative effort between NRCS and UNICEF, aimed to support the educational needs of vulnerable families in three local government areas of Borno State.
The second phase of the disbursement, targeting 8,121 beneficiaries, began on May 14, 2025, at four designated pay points: Kasugula Primary School, Old Bama Primary School, Kaigamari Primary School, and Mbusube Primary School.
According to the NRCS, over 1,000 beneficiaries received assistance without any issues on the first day of distribution.
The Tragic Incident
However, on the second day of the exercise, a stampede occurred at Kasugula Primary School. The NRCS reported that 21 individuals were injured and one person tragically lost their life.
Four of the injured individuals suffered breathing difficulties but were quickly resuscitated. All injured persons were transported to the General Hospital Bama for treatment. Fortunately, their condition is now stable, and they are expected to be discharged soon.
The NRCS continues to provide support to those affected by the incident.
