Asake devastated after deadly stampede at Nyayo stadium that killed 1: 'Breaks my heart'

Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake has spoken out after a deadly stampede that occurred during the Asake x Gabzy concert in Nairobi.

The show, held at Nyayo National Stadium on December 20, was a night meant to celebrate music but one that ended in grief.

In an Instagram statement shared hours after public concern mounted, the artist expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and pledged his support to those affected.

"I am devastated by the tragic incident that took place at the festival on Dec 20th in Nairobi," Asake wrote.

"My heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Karen Lojore." He went on to state that he was committed to understanding what went wrong, adding that those responsible should be held accountable.

Framing music as his lifelong language of joy and love, Asake said it "breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss," before ending with a message of solidarity: "God bless Kenya."

The statement marked Asake's first public response since the incident, which sparked widespread outrage and mourning across Kenyan social media. Many fans had been waiting for acknowledgement from the headline act, and his words were received as both a condolence and a call for accountability.

The tragedy unfolded outside the concert venue as hundreds of fans gathered, waiting to gain entry for the highly anticipated Asake x Gabzy show.

In viral videos that circulated shortly after, crowds could be heard chanting and demanding access, insisting they had valid tickets. Tension quickly escalated as the gates were eventually opened, triggering a sudden surge of people rushing inward.

What followed was chaos. Screams pierced the air as the crowd pressed forward, resulting in a deadly stampede.

Karen Lojore, a young woman in attendance, was later confirmed dead, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital. Eyewitnesses described moments of panic, with little crowd control and delayed emergency response compounding the situation.

Questions remain over event planning, security management, and responsibility. Authorities have since launched investigations, while promoters and stakeholders face mounting pressure to explain how safety protocols failed so catastrophically.