Children’s Day: Edo Govt Clarifies Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Incident

The Edo State Government has clarified the incident that occurred during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, dismissing what it described as misleading social media narratives surrounding the development.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the government rejected sensational interpretations, misinformation, and deliberate attempts to twist the incident in order to give the administration a bad name.

According to the statement, the stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of excited children from different schools across the state who came to participate in the Children’s Day activities.

Ebojele said the turnout was unprecedented, adding that all entrances into the facility were opened to allow the children access to the stadium.

He explained that some excited children became unruly at one of the gates, leading to a stampede-like situation. He said the incident prompted one of the bouncers at the venue to deploy tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

The statement noted that a few students sustained injuries during the pandemonium that followed.

Ebojele disclosed that the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who was physically present at the stadium, responded immediately by assisting affected children with first aid.

He added that those who required further medical attention were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital, where they received appropriate treatment and were later discharged to reunite with their families.

The Chief Press Secretary said the state government had already authorised an investigation into the incident, while the bouncer involved was being interrogated by the police to ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the incident.

“The Edo State Government wishes to restate its commitment to the safety and security of all, including our children,” the statement said.

The government also appealed to social media users and members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified narratives capable of creating unnecessary panic.

Ebojele described the incident as isolated and regrettable, stressing that it does not diminish Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to child safety, wellbeing and education.

He noted that the large turnout of pupils and students at the stadium reflected the confidence of schools and families in the administration’s investment in education and children’s development.

The government commended security personnel, medical staff and volunteers for their swift response, noting that their intervention helped to douse tension and ensure that the affected children received prompt attention.