At least four people have lost their lives following a stampede that occurred during the sharing of annual Ramadan alms in Kofar-Guga quarters of Katsina.
The tragic incident was confirmed by the police in the state.
In a statement released on Sunday in Katsina, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Aliyu Abubakar, confirmed the development, saying the deaths happened during the distribution exercise.
Details surrounding how the stampede started were not immediately made public, but authorities have acknowledged the loss of lives and the circumstances linked to the charity event held as part of the Ramadan activities.
“The Police Command in Katsina regrets to report a stampede incident that occurred during the distribution of annual Ramadan alms at Kofar-Guga quarters, resulting in several people sustaining injuries,” he said.
According to him, on Feb. 26, 2026, at about 9 p.m., a distress call was received at the Central Police Station in Katsina about a large crowd gathered at the residence of a philanthropist in the Kofar-Guga quarters, Katsina, which resulted in a stampede.
Upon receipt of the report, a team of policemen promptly responded to the scene.
“The rescuers rushed the victims to the nearest hospital for medical attention.
“Unfortunately, four of the injured later succumbed to their injuries.”
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Bello Shehu, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those injured a speedy recovery as he directed further investigation and necessary measures to prevent future occurrences.
He, however, said that the Command was calling on individuals who wish to distribute alms to the public to notify the Command for adequate security coverage, to ensure the safety of lives and property, and to maintain orderliness during such events, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
