Nigerian Afrobeats Sensation Asaka issued a statement following the death of a fan following a stampede at his concert in Nairobi, Kenya on Saturday (December 20).
Taking to his Instagram story yesterday (December 22), the singer, songwriter and rapper said he is “devastated by the tragic incident” that killed 20-year-old Karen Lojore during his performance at the Nyayo National Stadium. At the time of publication, Lojore's cause of death had not yet been determined.
“I promise to support and do everything possible to understand what happened,” Asake wrote. “Those responsible must be held accountable.”
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to endure such a loss,” he continued. “My thoughts are with all those mourning and I pray that Karen rests in peace.”
According to BBCLohore was reported to be standing in one of the long queues outside the stadium gates where fans were waiting as heavy rain delayed entry into the stadium.
“During a music concert at the Nyayo National Stadium, there was a brief stampede at the entrance gate,” a Kenya National Police Service spokesman told the newspaper. “Although the situation later calmed down and fans were able to enter the stadium during the concert, a sad incident was recorded of a 20-year-old woman who was crushed to death near the entrance.”
Tukutane Entertainment, the show's promoter, added in a statement: “We are deeply saddened that a tragic incident resulting in loss of life occurred during our concert on December 20th. Our hearts are with the family, friends and loved ones affected by this devastating loss. We offer our deepest sympathies at this incredibly difficult time. The safety and well-being of everyone who attends our events is something we take very seriously.”
The Tukutane said they are cooperating fully with emergency services and authorities as they investigate the incident.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time tragedy has befallen the Asaka show: after 2022 concert at London's O2 Brixton AcademyRebecca Ikumelo, 33, died from injuries sustained in a crowd crush. According to police, the concert had to be stopped midway after a “large number of people” tried to get inside.
