A post-convocation celebration in Ikere-Ekiti, the headquarters of Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti State, ended in tragedy on Saturday, as at least three persons reportedly lost their lives following a violent outbreak at a popular hotel in the town.
According to Rayopost, the incident occurred shortly after the second convocation ceremony of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), where students and fresh graduates had gathered to celebrate.
Eyewitnesses said the event, which began in a lively and festive mood, took a deadly turn after a disagreement among some attendees escalated into a violent clash. The situation worsened when some individuals allegedly introduced sharp objects, causing panic among those present.
In a desperate attempt to escape the violence, partygoers reportedly rushed for safety, leading to a stampede within the venue. Several people were said to have fallen during the chaos and were trampled upon.
Sources disclosed that three persons died in the incident. Two of the victims reportedly lost their lives as a result of the stampede, while another was said to have been attacked during the altercation. One of the deceased was identified as a fresh graduate who had participated in the convocation earlier that day.
The incident has deepened sorrow in the community, with reports indicating that two of the victims were siblings, leaving their family devastated.
As of the time of this report, the Ekiti State command of the Nigeria Police Force had yet to release an official statement, while efforts to ascertain further details and possible arrests were still ongoing.
source: Rayopost
