ACCRA, Ghana (BN24) — A military recruitment drive turned tragic in Ghana’s capital on Wednesday when at least six people died and several others were injured in a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra, officials confirmed.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the incident occurred before dawn as thousands of young applicants gathered outside the stadium gates to participate in the 2025–2026 military recruitment exercise. The Armed Forces said in a statement that the tragedy unfolded around 6:20 a.m., when a surge in the crowd caused several people to fall and be trampled as others pushed forward to gain entry.
The statement, signed by Colonel Evelyn Asamoah, Acting Director-General of the Public Relations Directorate, said the stampede happened when “a large number of applicants breached security protocols and forced their way into the gates ahead of the scheduled screening.”
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as security personnel struggled to control the crowd. Videos circulating on social media showed long queues forming on the surrounding streets hours before dawn, with some applicants reportedly arriving as early as 2 a.m. in hopes of securing a spot in line.
“People were pushing and shouting; everyone wanted to get inside first,” said a witness who declined to give his name. “There were too many people and not enough security to manage the crowd.”
The Ghana Armed Forces said emergency medical teams were immediately dispatched to the scene to provide aid to the injured. Victims were transported to the 37 Military Hospital, where doctors are working to stabilize those in critical condition.
“The unfortunate incident led to the death of six potential recruits, and many others were injured,” the statement said. The Ghana Armed Forces assures the general public that medical teams are working tirelessly to stabilize affected individuals. Arrangements are being made to notify the families of the deceased.”
Colonel Asamoah expressed the Force’s condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and said investigations were underway to determine the cause and prevent future tragedies.
“The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the general public of a tragic stampede before the commencement of the recruitment exercise,” Asamoah said. “Preliminary investigations indicate that the stampede was triggered by an unexpected surge of applicants who breached security protocols and rushed into the gates.”
By late afternoon, authorities had cordoned off sections of the stadium as officials reviewed security footage and interviewed witnesses. Military officers at the scene told reporters that crowd control measures would be strengthened before the exercise resumes.
The Ghana Armed Forces called for calm, urging the public to await official updates and avoid spreading misinformation online.
The recruitment drive, part of the 2025–2026 enlistment campaign, had attracted thousands of applicants across the country, reflecting widespread interest in military service amid limited employment opportunities.
Funeral arrangements for the deceased are expected to be announced once families are formally notified, according to military officials.
