One dead, six Injured in stampede at Defence Minister’s residence

A stampede at the Gusau residence of the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, in Zamfara State has resulted in one death and six serious injuries.
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‎The incident occurred on Thursday evening when a large crowd gathered outside the residence in anticipation of the Minister’s arrival, leading to chaos and a fatal surge. Authorities have deployed security personnel to the area and have launched a formal investigation into the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
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‎The stampede occurred during an apparent large-scale homecoming event for the Minister, the former Governor of Zamfara State.
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‎According to security sources, the stampede happened around 7:30 PM on Thursday as a massive crowd matched toward the Minister’s residence to welcome him back to the state, resulting in panic and a deadly crush.
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‎The fatality was identified as Khalifa Uzairu, 23, who was confirmed dead upon arrival at Farida General Hospital. The six injured victims, including Ayuba Sani, Muhammadu Adams, and Aliyu Aminu, were transported for medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
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‎The Minister’s return to Zamfara was already a high-tension political event. His party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), had previously accused the rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of plotting to disrupt the welcoming ceremony, urging security agencies to be watchful and their own supporters to maintain order.
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‎The Zamfara State Police and other relevant authorities are tasked with concluding their investigation to determine accountability and prevent future occurrences, which remain a recurring issue at public events across Nigeria.
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