President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, visited victims of the El-Wak Sports Stadium stampede who are currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.
The President toured the hospital’s emergency and intensive care units, where he was briefed by medical staff on the condition of the injured and the progress of ongoing treatment efforts. He was accompanied by several government officials, including Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
At least six people have been confirmed dead, while 12 others remain in critical condition, five of whom are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
According to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the tragedy occurred when thousands of young applicants thronged the El-Wak Stadium for a recruitment exercise. The massive turnout reportedly caused severe congestion at the entrances, leading to chaotic scenes, intense pushing, and a deadly stampede.
Security agencies swiftly cordoned off the area, with military personnel closing key access routes around the stadium to restore order and facilitate rescue operations. The bodies of the deceased have since been deposited at the 37 Military Hospital morgue.
The stampede happened during an extended recruitment period by the Ghana Armed Forces. The exercise, initially set to end on October 31, 2025, was extended by one week following technical difficulties with the online application system.
President Mahama expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured that a full investigation would be conducted to determine the causes and prevent future occurrences.
