Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has expressed profound sorrow over the deaths of six young people who lost their lives in a stampede during a Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra.

Several others were reported injured in the incident.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 12, and signed by her Press Secretary and Spokesperson, Ama Pratt, the Vice President extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Describing the tragedy as heartbreaking, Professor Opoku-Agyemang said the victims were young Ghanaians eager to serve their country, adding that their loss is a pain shared by the entire nation.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang urged the public to remain calm while authorities investigate the circumstances that led to the stampede. 

She also called for swift and thorough measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Vice President assured families of the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability and improving safety at public recruitment and national events.

Background

A stampede at the El Wak Stadium on Wednesday morning, where the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) was recruiting soldiers, has led to the death of six people with several others injured, the GAF has confirmed. 

The injured persons are receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital. Some are in critical condition.

In a statement confirming the tragic incident, the Ghana Armed Forces expressed deep regret about the stampede, which it said occurred before the commencement of the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise today.

Meanwhile, the exercise is happening simultaneously at various centres across the country.