Afrobeats singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has expressed sadness following the death of a young woman during a stampede at his concert in Nairobi, Kenya.
The incident occurred on Saturday, December 20, at Nyayo National Stadium, where Asake was performing alongside British Nigerian singer Gabzy.
The victim, identified as Karen Lojore, a 20-year-old student, reportedly died after a crowd surge near one of the stadium’s entry points. She was taken to a nearby hospital where she was confirmed dead.
Police authorities said the stampede happened outside the venue as fans struggled to gain access to the stadium. The situation was later brought under control, and the concert went on as scheduled.
Reacting to the tragedy, Asake shared a message on his Instagram story, describing the incident as devastating. He extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and said he would support efforts to understand what led to the incident.
“My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore,” he wrote.
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss. My thoughts are with everyone grieving, and I pray that Karen rests in peace. God Bless Kenya.”
The death sparked reactions online, with fans and friends mourning the young woman. Her mother has also spoken publicly, questioning how her daughter died despite holding a valid ticket and calling for accountability.
Eyewitness accounts from the scene described overcrowding outside the stadium gates, with reports of delays and poor crowd control contributing to the chaos. Some attendees also mentioned that weather conditions added to the tension before the stampede occurred.
Concert organisers, Tukutane Entertainment, confirmed the incident and said they were cooperating with authorities as investigations continued. They extended condolences to the victim’s family.
The incident has renewed public conversations about safety measures at large scale events in Kenya. Authorities are yet to release a detailed report on the cause of the stampede, while investigations remain ongoing.
