Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Umuchu, Aguata LGA, Anambra State — Tragedy struck a community carnival in Umuchu on December 29, 2025, when a powerful fireworks device detonated unexpectedly, killing at least two residents and injuring numerous others, including children, witnesses and emergency responders said. The blast transformed what was meant to be a festive celebration into a scene of shock, injury and grief.
The explosion occurred near the main stage of a local carnival, where revellers had gathered to enjoy music, dancing and holiday festivities. Eyewitnesses described how a high‑intensity firework — commonly referred to as a “knockout” — was ignited and then exploded with such force that it sounded like a bomb, immediately throwing people off their feet and sending debris and sparks into the crowd. “It exploded like a bomb,” one onlooker recalled, adding that people around the stage fell to the ground and screams erupted as smoke filled the air.
Among the dead was a young woman identified locally as Ugochi, who was struck by the blast and died instantly at the scene. A second victim succumbed to injuries later at a hospital in the community, health officials confirmed. Residents fear the death toll could rise, as many of those wounded sustained severe burns, lacerations and trauma.
Several children, estimated to be as young as five to ten years old, were among the injured, with some suffering deep burns to their faces and necks or having their clothes ignited by the explosion. Video footage circulating on social media showed terrified attendees rushing to assist the wounded, carrying victims — including a teenage girl estimated to be around 14 years old — into waiting vehicles for urgent medical attention.
In the chaotic aftermath, local hospitals and clinics were swamped with victims brought in by anxious relatives and rescuers. Many were treated for burns, cuts and shock, and several remained in critical condition as medical staff worked to stabilise them. Community members said that resources were strained and urgent calls were made for additional medical support.
Residents expressed profound frustration and sorrow, noting that the event — intended to be a joyous celebration during the holiday season — turned into a disaster with lasting emotional and physical consequences. “We came back for the holidays, but this has turned into mourning,” a grieving relative said, recounting how Ugochi had returned home from travel just days before the explosion.
Eyewitnesses also raised concerns about the use of dangerous fireworks at public gatherings without adequate safety measures. Knockouts and other high‑intensity pyrotechnics are known to be unpredictable and can cause catastrophic injuries if they malfunction or are detonated too close to crowds — a reality tragically underscored by this incident.
As of early Tuesday morning, there had been no official statement from the Anambra State Government, the police command, or emergency response authorities addressing the explosion, its causes, or safety protocols for future events. Residents have called for a comprehensive investigation into how the fireworks were obtained and used, and for urgent improvements in public safety at communal celebrations. (
Community leaders and activists urged organisers and authorities across the region to review safety standards at festivities and to prohibit the use of hazardous pyrotechnics in densely populated settings to prevent similar tragedies. Meanwhile, families of the deceased and injured continue to grapple with loss, trauma and the possibility of a prolonged recovery for many of those hurt in the blast.
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