Amanze Chinonye
The Edo State Government has confirmed the arrest of a private security operative allegedly responsible for the chaos that disrupted the 2026 Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Wednesday.
The incident, which left more than 30 schoolchildren hospitalised, reportedly occurred after the operative discharged pepper spray during an altercation at the crowded venue, triggering panic among pupils and spectators.
Eyewitnesses said the disturbance began after some male students allegedly harassed female pupils during the event, prompting intervention from bouncers stationed at the stadium. During the confrontation, one of the operatives reportedly sprayed pepper spray into the crowd, causing confusion and a stampede-like situation.
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Several pupils, most of them girls, reportedly fainted and experienced breathing difficulties as frightened children scrambled for safety.
The affected pupils were rushed to medical facilities, including Edo Specialist Hospital, where they received treatment for respiratory distress, exhaustion and minor injuries sustained during the incident.
Confirming the development, the Edo State Government said the operative involved was not part of the official security team deployed for the event but a privately engaged bouncer.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele, said the suspect had been detained by the police and was currently being interrogated as investigations continue.
Ebojele also dismissed reports circulating on social media suggesting that the incident resulted in fatalities or a major stampede, describing such claims as exaggerated.
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According to the government, most of the affected pupils had been treated and discharged from hospital, while two students remained under medical observation as a precautionary measure.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa was reportedly present at the stadium during the incident and assisted with emergency response efforts before the affected children were evacuated for treatment.
The Children’s Day celebration, organised by the Edo State Ministry of Education, had attracted thousands of pupils from schools across the state before activities were disrupted by the incident.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
