Nigerian music star, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident that occurred at a festival in Nairobi on December 20, which claimed the life of a young Kenyan woman, Karen Lojore.
In a heartfelt statement, the award-winning artiste said he was “devastated” by the incident, extending condolences to Lojore’s family, friends and loved ones, and describing the loss as painful and deeply troubling.
“My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore,” Asake said. “I pledge to support and do my best to understand what happened. Those responsible should be held accountable.”
The singer, known for his energetic performances and music centred on joy and connection, said it was heartbreaking that a space meant for celebration ended in tragedy.
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy, and it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss,” he stated.
Asake said his thoughts and prayers were with everyone grieving, praying for the repose of Lojore’s soul. “God bless Kenya. RIP Lojore,” the statement added.
Karen Lojore reportedly died during Asake’s concert held at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday, following a stampede at the venue.
According to Kenyan media outlet, Ghetto Radio, the concert was plagued by poor ticketing and crowd control, with severe congestion reported at the stadium’s entry points as thousands of fans attempted to gain access.
Amid the chaos, Kenya’s Kodong Clan, which was billed to perform at the event, announced its withdrawal, citing alleged disrespect and poor treatment by the organisers.
Friends and acquaintances of the deceased took to social media to mourn her death, expressing shock that she lost her life despite having a valid ticket for the concert.
“One of my friends just lost her friend at the Asake concert; she was in the stampede and unfortunately lost her life, yet she had a ticket. My heart breaks for her. Aki, may she rest in peace,” a social media user wrote.
Poet and activist Willie Oeba also confirmed the incident in a separate post, lamenting the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.
“Karen passed on last night as a result of the stampede at the Nyayo Stadium Asake concert. Very sad to die in such a manner at such a time. Rest in peace, young soul,” he said.
Eyewitnesses alleged that stewards at the entry points were slow in clearing revellers into the stadium, leading to a dangerous buildup of crowds outside the venue.
According to the accounts, police intervention aimed at restoring order reportedly escalated the situation, triggering panic, chaos and shouts of “I can’t breathe” from within the crowd.
The tragedy has drawn comparisons to a similar incident at Asake’s concert in London on December 15, 2022, at the O2 Brixton Academy, where a crowd crush claimed two lives and left several others critically injured.