Accra - At least six people have tragically lost their lives in a stampede at El-Wak Stadium during a Ghana military recruitment exercise. The incident occurred on Wednesday, leaving several others injured, with some in critical condition.
What Happened at El-Wak Stadium?
According to reports, the stampede was triggered by a surge of applicants who overwhelmed security at the stadium gates. Thousands of young Ghanaians had gathered, hoping to join the military, reflecting the high levels of youth unemployment in the country.
The Aftermath
Families have gathered at the 37 Military Hospital, desperately seeking information about their loved ones. The President of Ghana, John Mahama, visited the injured in the aftermath of the tragedy. While the recruitment exercise initially commenced, it was later suspended to allow for a thorough review of security measures.
Criticism and Calls for Reform
The incident has sparked widespread criticism. MP Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has condemned both the government and the military, calling the event a "national embarrassment." He emphasized the need for reflection and reform, highlighting the desperation driving young people to attend such recruitment events.
- Military to investigate the crush.
- Concerns raised about operational preparedness.
- Need for improved intelligence gathering and logistics.
Ghana's youth unemployment rate remains a significant challenge, contributing to the large turnout at recruitment events. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for solutions to address unemployment and ensure the safety of citizens participating in such exercises.