The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has voiced strong condemnation over the chaos that erupted during the Children’s Day festivities at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Edo State, leaving numerous students with injuries. The incident, which occurred on May 27, 2026, saw security personnel deploy pepper spray and tear gas to manage crowds, triggering a stampede that reportedly harmed over 50 students, predominantly girls.
According to CRPP National Chairman Dr. Samson Isibor, the use of non-state actors like bouncers for crowd control at such a large-scale event was highly questionable. He further criticized the involvement of Government House security in authorizing the use of chemical agents, which escalated the situation and led to the trampling of innocent children trying to flee.
The coalition alleged that two students may have lost their lives, though this has not been officially confirmed. Videos and images of the tragic event have circulated widely online, contradicting the state government’s denial of any fatalities. Isibor argued that the disaster exposes Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration as inept in crowd management and failing to safeguard children, especially girls.
He stated, “This tragedy reveals the government’s so-called child-friendly image as a facade. The alleged invasion by cultists also undermines the governor’s claims of eradicating cultism, showing that security challenges persist.”
The CRPP demands a public apology from Governor Okpebholo to the children and parents affected. They urge the state to cover all medical expenses for the injured and provide fair compensation for their losses.
Recall that the Edo State Government had earlier denied any student deaths, dismissing such reports as baseless.