Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has expressed deep sorrow following the death of a fan during his concert at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
The incident occurred on Saturday, December 20, during a concert headlined by Asake and co-headliner Gabzy. The deceased, identified as Karen Lojore, died after being caught in a crowd crush near the stadium entrance as fans attempted to access the venue.
In a condolence message released after the incident, Asake said he was devastated by the tragedy and extended his sympathies to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. He noted that music has always been his way of spreading joy and love, making the incident deeply painful on a personal level.
Asake also said he would support efforts aimed at understanding what went wrong during the concert and called for accountability where responsibility is established. He added a prayer for the deceased and for Kenya.
Event organisers separately confirmed the fatal incident and also expressed sorrow over the loss of life. In a statement issued on Sunday, they said the safety and well-being of attendees was a priority and noted that they were cooperating with emergency services and relevant authorities to establish what led to the stampede.
The organisers said they would not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident while investigations are ongoing, pledging transparency and accountability as more information becomes available.
According to preliminary reports, congestion at the stadium gates escalated rapidly as large numbers of fans arrived for the show. Karen Lojore was reportedly rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The tragedy cast a sombre mood over what had been expected to be one of the biggest music events of the season, drawing hundreds of fans to the stadium.
The incident has renewed public concern over crowd control, security planning, and safety standards at large entertainment events in Kenya. On social media, fans and members of the public have mourned Karen Lojore while calling for justice and stronger safety measures at concerts.
Authorities have yet to release official findings, with investigations ongoing as the family of the deceased and the wider public await answers.
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