A Kenyan woman, identified as Karen Lojore, has reportedly died during Nigerian singer Asake’s concert at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday.
The tragedy occurred when a stampede broke out at the event, which attracted thousands of fans. According to Kenyan news outlet Ghetto Radio, poor ticketing arrangements and overcrowding at the stadium’s entry points contributed to the chaos.
Following the incident, Kenya’s Kodong Clan announced its withdrawal from the concert, citing disrespect and poor treatment by the organisers.
Friends and acquaintances of Lojore took to social media to mourn her death, emphasizing that she had a valid ticket, which should have ensured her safety. One user wrote, “One of my friends just lost her friend at the Asake concert; she was in the stampede and unfortunately lost her life, yet she had a ticket. My heart breaks for her. Aki, may she rest in peace.”
Poet and activist Willie Oeba also confirmed the death, expressing sorrow over the circumstances. “Karen passed on last night as a result of the stampede at the Nyayo Stadium Asake concert. Very sad to die in such a manner at such a time. Rest in peace, young soul,” he said.
Eyewitnesses reported that stewards were slow in admitting attendees, causing large crowds to form outside the stadium. Police efforts to restore order reportedly escalated the situation, leading to panic, running, and cries of “I can’t breathe” from those in the crowd.
This incident mirrors a previous tragedy at Asake’s London concert on December 15, 2022, at the O2 Brixton Academy, where a crowd crush led to two deaths and several critical injuries.
