A tragic incident occurred on Thursday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Edo State, where a middle-aged man lost his life after being struck by a fallen broadcast mast.

The unfortunate event happened during a heavy breeze and downpour, which disrupted a praise night event organized to mark Governor Monday Okpebholo’s 100 days in office.

How the Incident Happened

According to eyewitnesses, the deceased was the driver of a decorator assigned to set up the venue. The victim was reportedly trying to salvage his boss’s decorating materials when the strong winds caused the mast to collapse, striking him fatally.

A police officer at the scene, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the tragic moment:

“We were all gathered at the stadium waiting for the commencement of the praise night when the breeze began. Unfortunately, the mast fell and killed the man instantly. His head was shattered, and it was a gory sight.”

Following the tragedy, attendees fled the stadium as the rain subsided, bringing the event to an abrupt halt.

Official Response

Efforts to obtain an official statement from the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Moses Yamu, were unsuccessful, as multiple calls to his phone went unanswered.

The incident has raised concerns over structural safety measures at public venues, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the mast’s collapse and assess safety protocols at the stadium to prevent future occurrences.