Chaos erupted during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City after a security operative allegedly deployed pepper spray during a disturbance involving students.
The event, organised by the Edo State Government, had attracted thousands of pupils and students from different schools across the state for march-past displays, cultural performances and other Children’s Day activities.
Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa were present or represented at the event, which focused on child welfare, protection and inclusion.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident reportedly began after an altercation involving students from Ihogbe Secondary School and some female pupils, leading to tension around one section of the stadium.
As the situation escalated, security operatives and bouncers reportedly moved in to restore order.
Witnesses claimed that during attempts to disperse the crowd, one of the security personnel allegedly sprayed pepper spray or tear gas, triggering panic among the pupils and attendees.
The situation quickly turned chaotic as frightened children and teachers scrambled for safety.
Several pupils reportedly collapsed after inhaling the substance, while others sustained injuries during the rush. Some reports claimed dozens of children were affected, although official figures remain unclear.
Videos circulating online showed emotional scenes of pupils receiving medical attention and attendees trying to evacuate affected children from the stadium.
The injured pupils were reportedly taken to nearby medical facilities, including Edo Specialist Hospital, where many were treated and later discharged.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa was also seen assisting with first aid efforts during the emergency response.
Following the incident, authorities confirmed that the bouncer allegedly involved had been arrested.
Governor Monday Okpebholo subsequently ordered a full investigation into the incident.
In its reaction, the Edo State Government explained that the stadium had reached full capacity and that some students became unruly, leading to the stampede-like situation.
The government also described some social media reports surrounding the incident as misleading while reaffirming its commitment to child safety and welfare.
The incident has since sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians criticising crowd control measures and questioning the use of pepper spray around children during a public event.
Edo State is trending after chaos broke out during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, leaving several pupils hospitalized following a stampede and reported pepper spray incident.
Thousands of students from different schools across… pic.twitter.com/RE1kTDYzHG
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) May 28, 2026
