Kenyan woman Karen Lojore reportedly died during a concert by Nigerian singer Asek in Nairobi on Saturday. The incident occurred at Nyayo Stadium, where a stampede was reported as thousands of fans were attending the show.
Kenyan news platform Ghetto Radio reported that the concert was marred by poor ticket planning and there was congestion at the entrance to the stadium.
Kenya’s Kodong Clan later announced it was withdrawing from the event, citing disrespect and poor treatment by organizers.
Friends and acquaintances of the deceased mourned her passing on social media, noting that she had been issued a ticket that was expected to keep her safe at the venue.
One social media user wrote on Twitter: “A friend of mine just lost her friend at the Asagi concert; she tragically died in the stampede but she had a ticket. My heart breaks for her. May she rest in peace, Aki.”
Poet and activist Willie Oeba also confirmed the incident in a separate post and expressed condolences over the circumstances of her death.
“Karen passed away last night as a result of the stampede at the Nyayo Stadium Asake concert. It is very sad to pass away in such a way at such a time. “Rest in peace young soul,” he said.
Witnesses said staff at the entrance were slow to clear revelers from entering the venue, leading to large crowds gathering outside the stadium.
Police intervention to restore order reportedly escalated the situation, leading to panic, fights and chants of “I can’t breathe” from the crowd.
