A fatal stampede at a post-convocation party in Ikere-Ekiti has prompted the Ekiti State Police Command to launch a full investigation into the incident that claimed three lives early Sunday morning. The tragedy occurred at the Emirate Hotel in Ikere-Ekiti around 1:00 a.m. on April 19, 2026, following a celebration by fresh graduates from Bamidele Olumiluwa University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI). Among the victims were two students and a hotel staff member, with one of the students being a recent graduate who was celebrating with his sibling.
The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoroye Falade, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Sunday evening, ordering a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the stampede. According to the statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, the victims’ bodies have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The commissioner expressed deep sympathy to the families and friends of the deceased, urging them to remain calm during the ongoing investigation.
Preliminary findings indicate that the students had attended their convocation ceremony on April 18, 2028, before heading to the Emirate Hotel for a celebratory party. The gathering continued into the early hours of the following day when an argument erupted between two unidentified students, which quickly escalated into a physical fight. The commotion triggered panic among other attendees, leading to a stampede as people rushed to flee the premises. The chaos resulted in the tragic deaths of the three individuals.
CP Falade emphasized that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation, assuring the public that all necessary steps would be taken to uncover the full details of the incident. He also called on the public to cooperate with authorities and refrain from speculation until the official findings are released. The police are currently gathering testimonies from witnesses and reviewing security footage from the hotel to piece together the events that led to the stampede.
The incident has sparked concern among students, parents, and community leaders about safety during large gatherings, especially in crowded venues. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to assess the hotel’s safety measures and crowd management protocols. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness during public celebrations, particularly in high-density environments. The police have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available, while the families of the victims await answers and justice.
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