Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has issued a condolence message following the death of a young woman during his concert at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday, December 20.
In a statement released shortly after the incident confirming the news, Asake said he was devastated by the tragedy and extended his sympathies to the family and loved ones of the deceased, identified as Karen Lojore.
“I am devastated by the tragic incident that took place at the festival on Dec 20 in Nairobi. My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore,” the singer said.
He added that the incident had affected him deeply on a personal level, noting that music has always been his way of spreading joy and love.
“Music has always been my way of sharing love and joy. It breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss,” Asake said, adding that his thoughts were with everyone grieving.
He concluded his message with a prayer for the deceased and the country, saying, “I pray that Karen rests in peace. God bless Kenya.”
Asake further pledged to support efforts aimed at understanding what happened during the concert and called for accountability.
“I pledge to support and do my best to understand what happened. Those responsible should be held accountable,” he said.
Karen Lojore died on Saturday during the concert headlined by Asake and co-headliner Gabzy at Nyayo National Stadium.
According to preliminary reports, she was caught in a crowd crush near the entrance gates as fans attempted to access the venue.
Congestion is believed to have escalated rapidly among concertgoers.
Karen was reportedly rushed to hospital following the incident but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The tragedy cast a sombre mood over what had been anticipated as one of the biggest music events of the season, drawing hundreds of fans to the stadium.
The incident has raised renewed questions about crowd control and safety measures at large-scale entertainment events in Kenya.
The death has sparked public outrage and calls for investigations into the role of event organisers, security personnel, and stadium management.
Fans and members of the public took to social media to mourn Karen Lojore, with many demanding justice and better safety standards at concerts.
Nyayo National Stadium has in the past hosted major political, religious, and entertainment events.
Asake’s message has been widely shared online, with many fans acknowledging his expression of grief and his call for accountability.
Investigations into the incident are expected as the family of Karen Lojore and the wider public await answers over the circumstances that led to her death.
by JAMES GICHIGI
