The management of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, has expressed sorrow over the death of three persons following a stampede at a post-convocation party held at a hotel in Ikere Ekiti.

In a statement issued by the Registrar, Mrs Funmilola Adeusi, the institution confirmed that two graduates and one student lost their lives during the tragic incident.

The university stated that the victims were involved in a night celebration organised independently by some graduates and students after the school’s second convocation ceremony held on Saturday.

According to the statement, the incident happened at Emirate Hotel, an off-campus private venue, where a fight reportedly broke out and triggered the stampede.

The management stressed that the convocation ceremony on campus was peaceful, successful, and free from disruption.

It also rejected reports suggesting that the tragedy occurred within the university premises.

The university extended condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, describing the loss as painful for the entire academic community.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Police Command said preliminary findings showed the stampede happened around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, adding that the Commissioner of Police had ordered a full investigation into the incident.