The Gombe State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of two children following a stampede at the Gombe Central Eid Ground on Sunday.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Buhari Abdullahi, identified the victims as Aisha Salisu Ahmed (4) and Maryam Abdullahi Gwani (4), stating that they were pronounced dead by medical personnel while receiving treatment at a hospital.

According to DSP Abdullahi, the incident occurred at the exit gate of the Eid ground immediately after the conclusion of Eid prayers, which were attended by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III.

He said 22 other individuals sustained injuries in the stampede.

“The large crowd, primarily composed of women and children rushing to leave the prayer grounds, coupled with the intense heat, led to the stampede. As a result, 22 persons were affected,” he said.

DSP Abdullahi explained that 15 victims were taken to Zainab Bulkachuwa Hospital, while seven others were transported to the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, for medical treatment.

He attributed the stampede to inadequate exit access, emphasising the need for improved crowd management at the Eid ground.

He urged officials to ensure that all entrance and exit gates are opened to facilitate smooth movement, particularly after prayers.