Ghana military recruitment stampede, Accra El-Wak Stadium Stampede - DebrichGroup.com
GHANA: A tragic stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra during a Ghana Armed Forces recruitment screening on 12 November 2025 claimed six lives and left dozens injured.
According to DebrichGroup.com reporters, the military confirmed the fatalities and suspended the ongoing recruitment exercise across the country.
Authorities have since launched an internal investigation to determine what went wrong and how to prevent a recurrence.
Timeline of Events
Early Morning Rush
Thousands of shortlisted applicants arrived at the El-Wak Sports Stadium before dawn, eager to begin their screening process. Witnesses reported a large crowd forming outside the gates long before officials opened entry points.
The Surge
At around 6:20 a.m., an unexpected surge occurred as sections of the crowd reportedly broke through the main entrance in a rush to gain access. The sudden pressure caused people to fall and become trapped beneath others. Security personnel struggled to regain control as panic spread through the crowd.
Immediate Response
Emergency responders and military medics rushed to the scene. The injured were transported to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, where several were treated for suffocation, fractures, and other injuries. Six deaths were officially confirmed later that morning.
Government Action
In response to the incident, the President directed the suspension of the national military recruitment exercise and ordered a review of safety and crowd management protocols. The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) announced the formation of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the causes and recommend improvements.
Confirmed Facts
Location: El-Wak Sports Stadium, Accra
Casualties: Six confirmed dead, dozens injured
Cause: Uncontrolled surge of applicants who breached security barriers
Response: Recruitment suspended nationwide; internal inquiry initiated
Hospital: 37 Military Hospital treated the injured
Why Recruitment Exercises Draw Huge Crowds in Ghana
1. High Youth Unemployment
Government security forces — including the military, police, and immigration service — are among the few sources of stable, well-paying jobs. Thousands of young people apply for limited openings, creating intense competition.
2. Limited Access to Online Systems
Technical challenges and limited internet access often push applicants to appear in person to verify or confirm their details. When large numbers arrive simultaneously, overcrowding becomes inevitable.
3. Communication Gaps
Last-minute schedule changes or misinformation on social media can cause confusion, prompting many to arrive earlier or on the wrong day. Without accurate guidance, crowd management becomes far more difficult.
4. Desperation and Fear of Missing Out
Many applicants fear losing their chance at employment if they do not appear early or assertively. This sense of urgency often fuels chaotic scenes at recruitment centers.
Official and Public Reactions
Ghana Armed Forces
The military expressed deep regret over the loss of lives, extended condolences to affected families, and promised full medical support to the injured. Officials confirmed that security procedures had been breached and pledged to strengthen entry control systems.
Government Response
The President ordered an immediate suspension of recruitment activities and instructed relevant ministries to collaborate with the GAF to improve safety protocols.
