LAGOS

The death toll from two stampedes that occurred on Saturday during charity events in Anambra State and Nigeria's capital Abuja has jumped to 37, according to officials.

While 27 people were reportedly killed in the Okija area of Anambra, Southeastern Nigeria, 10 others were confirmed dead in Abuja, North-central.

Many others are still receiving treatment in various hospitals.

The incidents happened when people were rushing for the rice being distributed for indigent citizens ahead of Christmas celebrations.

Different state governments have mandated individuals and groups planning charity events expected to host more than 250 attendees to register with authorized safety agencies.

“Any individual, group, or organization planning to distribute items or host large gatherings must obtain clearance from the state government and register with the safety commissions,” said Gbenga Omotosho, Lagos state commissioner for information and strategy.

The Saturday incidents occurred days after 35 children died during a stampede at a carnival in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, bringing the total number of deaths recorded last week to 72.