The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed that six people have died following a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
The tragic incident occurred during an ongoing military recruitment exercise that drew thousands of hopeful applicants seeking to join the armed forces. Earlier, reports had speculated that 12 people had died, but the GAF has since clarified that six fatalities have been officially recorded.
According to a statement from the military, 28 individuals were rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for emergency treatment. Out of this number, six were pronounced dead, five remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and 12 are reported to be in critical condition. Medical teams continue to provide care for the injured as authorities assess the full extent of the tragedy.
Six dead in El-Wak Stadium Stampede During Ghana Armed Forces Recruitment in Accra
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the stampede erupted when thousands of applicants surged toward the stadium gates in a desperate attempt to gain entry. The massive crowd, combined with poor crowd management and limited entry points, created a chaotic scene that led to multiple injuries and fatalities. Security officers quickly moved in to cordon off the area, while all major roads leading to the stadium were closed to maintain order and facilitate rescue operations.
The recruitment exercise was initially scheduled to end on October 31, 2025, but was extended by one week following technical issues with the recruitment portal. In a statement signed by Colonel Evelyn Ntiamoah Asamoah, Acting Director General of Public Relations, the GAF explained that the extension was meant to allow applicants who experienced challenges during the initial phase to complete their applications.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirms El-Wak stampede death toll remains six
Sad News: Tension at the forecourt of El Wak Stadium over military recruitment leading to the demise of 12 persons
— GhanaTrends.com (@GhanaTrendsInc) November 12, 2025
Additionally, the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Forjour in an interview on JoyNews midday news has called for the immediate suspension of the ongoing recruitment exercise.
“The process must be halted immediately. Halt it immediately and let us prioritise lives” he said. He added “ A full investigation has to be undertaken to establish the fact, and reviews have to be put into process for us to be able to save lives”
Authorities have not yet issued further comments on the incident, but preliminary investigations suggest that inadequate crowd control and the overwhelming number of applicants contributed to the disaster. The Ghana Armed Forces have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the stampede and to implement stronger safety measures for future recruitment exercises.
Madam Ayamba Ayii Laadi, MP, Pusiga has caused some stir after she remarked “Today is the day the Almighty Allah has ordained for them to d!e” Ghanaians have said that was not expected from a member of parliament especially during these difficult times as families are still grieving. Watch video below;
El-wak tragedy:
Ayamba Ayii Laadi, MP, Pusiga says “Today is the day the Almighty Allah has ordained for them to d!e”
What do you think 🤔
— GhanaTrends.com (@GhanaTrendsInc) November 12, 2025
