At least two people have died, and several others were injured in a tragic
incident during the Christ the King procession in Aba, Nigeria, with overcrowding blamed for the
disaster as investigations into the cause continue.
“Some of our dedicated and courageous Catholics, who came out as usual
to join the annual Eucharistic procession in a joyful atmosphere, lost their
lives due to overcrowding during the procession,” said Bishop Augustine Ndubueze Echema of
Aba in a press release
announcing the deaths and injuries of worshippers due to “overcrowding” during the Christ the King procession November 24.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the victims and the circumstances
surrounding this tragedy.
“A tragic celebration and procession of Christ the King”—this is
how the Diocese of Aba, in southern Nigeria, described the event in a
statement. The announcement confirmed the deaths and injuries during the Christ
the King procession. The Feast of
Christ the King marks the annual closing of the pastoral year in the Diocese of
Aba, dedicated to Christ the King. The major procession, attended by faithful
from various parishes, takes place at Christ the King Cathedral.
“Such an incident will not happen again”
While local media reported the deaths of at least two elderly individuals, “investigations are still underway to determine the full account, the
identity of the victims, and the cause of this horrific episode,” assured
the bishop. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and expressed
compassion for the injured, who are still recovering in the hospital.
The bishop noted that the tragic incident is “the first of its kind in
the annals of the Christ the King procession in Aba.” He pledged to do
everything possible to prevent such a tragedy in the future and to support the
families and individuals affected during this period of emergency and mourning.
“I therefore appeal to our dynamic and courageous Catholics not to be
discouraged or lose heart. I reaffirm and assure you that such an incident will
not happen again,” said
the bishop, who entrusted the faithful to “the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of
Christ the King and Comforter of the Afflicted.”
