Two Feared Dead, Many Injured as Fireworks Explosion Rocks Christmas Carnival in Anambra
“Two people have died and several others were injured after a fireworks explosion disrupted a Christmas carnival in Umuchu, Anambra State, sparking panic and renewed safety concerns.”
At least two persons have been confirmed dead, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries following a fireworks explosion at a community Christmas carnival in Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday, December 29, when a high-intensity firework, popularly known as a “knockout”, detonated unexpectedly close to the main stage of the event, triggering panic among revellers.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the explosion happened at the peak of the celebrations, sending crowds scrambling for safety. One of the victims, identified simply as “Ugochi”, reportedly died instantly at the scene, while another female victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Residents expressed fears that the death toll could rise, as several of those injured sustained severe burns and deep lacerations.
“The knockout exploded like a bomb,” an eyewitness recounted. “Those closest to the stage collapsed immediately. The sound was deafening, and chaos broke out everywhere as people screamed for help.”
Video footage circulating on social media captured moments of thick smoke, confusion, and frantic attempts by attendees to flee the venue, while injured persons were seen being rushed out for medical attention.
Among the casualties was a teenage girl, estimated to be about 14 years old, who reportedly suffered critical injuries to the neck.
A family member of Ugochi confirmed her death in a voice note shared with journalists, explaining that she had returned to Umuchu for the Christmas holidays and was dancing at the carnival when the explosion occurred.
Residents further disclosed that children were among those most affected, with some sustaining burns to the face and other parts of their bodies.
According to eyewitnesses, the fireworks used at the event were stored in cartons and were capable of producing multiple explosive rounds, significantly worsening the impact of the blast.
As of Tuesday morning, neither community leaders nor officials of the Aguata Local Government Area had issued an official statement on the incident. There was also no immediate response from the Anambra State Government or emergency agencies, raising concerns among residents that the tragedy might be downplayed.
Efforts to reach the Anambra State Police Command for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
It is noteworthy that the Anambra State Police Command had earlier prohibited the use of knockout bangers and other ceremonial explosives during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, announced the ban in Awka during a press briefing.
“As we enter the festive season, the Command has deployed robust security measures to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful celebration,” the police commissioner said.
He added: “We urge the public to adhere strictly to safety advisories. The use of knockout substances and other social explosives remains prohibited in Anambra State.”
