NDC youth wing calls for probe into GAF recruitment stampede deaths

The Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed deep sorrow and outrage following the tragic death of six young Ghanaians during a military recruitment screening exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra.

The statement was posted on the official Facebook page of the Deputy National Youth Organizer of the ruling NDC, Osman Ayariga.

It described the event as “a devastating blow to the families, communities, and our entire nation.” The Youth Wing said it was also alarmed by reports that several other applicants sustained injuries, with five currently in critical condition at the 37 Military Hospital.

“The Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic news of the death of six young Ghanaians during a military recruitment screening exercise today,” the statement read.

“The loss of these promising young lives is a devastating blow to their families, communities, and our entire nation. We are also profoundly concerned about reports of several injuries, with five individuals currently in critical condition.”

The Wing extended its condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery, urging the nation to stand together in this moment of grief.

“In this moment of profound grief, our immediate and heartfelt thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives,” it added. “We extend our deepest condolences and pray they find the strength to endure this unimaginable loss.”

The statement called for a transparent and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. It urged the Ghana Armed Forces and relevant authorities to ensure full public disclosure of what led to the deadly stampede.

“This tragic incident necessitates an immediate, transparent, and thorough investigation. We call on the Ghana Armed Forces and relevant authorities to initiate a full public inquiry to establish the precise circumstances that led to this avoidable tragedy. The families of the victims and the Ghanaian public are entitled to full transparency and accountability.”

The Youth Wing also used the opportunity to highlight the growing crisis of youth unemployment, noting that thousands of young people are increasingly resorting to desperate measures in search of scarce opportunities.

“This event also highlights the urgent issue of youth unemployment and the desperate measures young people are compelled to take in search of limited opportunities,” it stated.

Reaffirming the NDC government’s commitment to empowering young people, the statement cited ongoing national initiatives such as the National Apprenticeship Programme, the One Million Coders Initiative, and the Adwumawura Programme, which seek to build practical skills, expand innovation, and create sustainable employment avenues.

“We strongly encourage all young Ghanaians to explore and utilise these opportunities as we work together to build a more resilient and diverse economy,” the statement concluded.

The six deaths, confirmed earlier by the Ghana Armed Forces, occurred after thousands of hopeful applicants thronged the El-Wak Sports Stadium for the 2025/2026 recruitment screening exercise. Witnesses say a stampede ensued when the crowd overwhelmed security barriers in an attempt to gain entry.

The Armed Forces have since extended condolences to the affected families and assured the public that investigations are underway.