Several Injured as Start-Line Gantry Collapses at Ikogosi Marathon, Sparking Crowd Surge

Several runners were injured on Saturday, October 31, when the start-line gantry collapsed at the 2026 Ikogosi Marathon in Ekiti State.

The overhead structure came down as runners surged forward at the start of the 17.5km race. Video shared widely on social media, including by activist Omoyele Sowore, shows the fallen gantry blocking the route while runners behind kept pushing. Some people were knocked down. About 8,000 runners took part, according to Sowore.

No deaths have been reported. Organizers have not said how many people were injured or where they were treated.

The race went on. Gyang James won in 57 minutes, his brother Francis James came second in 58 minutes, and Rochas Sunday finished third in 59 minutes. Runners came from 28 states, plus Kenya and Ethiopia.

Why it matters

Crowd surges can kill. In a tight crowd, people can be crushed or suffocate while still standing, and falls under a moving crowd cause serious injuries. Big events need anchored structures, staggered starts, crowd marshals and medical teams placed at the start line, not only at the finish.

If you’re caught in a crowd surge

• Keep your arms up in front of your chest to protect your breathing space
• Move diagonally, toward the edge of the crowd, not against it
• Stay on your feet. If you fall, get up fast or curl up and protect your head
• Avoid standing near barriers, walls or loose structures

If a runner is injured, get them checked even if they say they feel fine. Chest pain, breathing trouble or severe swelling needs urgent care.

THF has reached out to the Ikogosi Marathon organizers for comment.